Havenier: Chief Prosecutor Resolved With Fair, Open, and Worthy Process

US Ambassador Jeff Hovenier has said the process of electing the chief state prosecutor should be fair, open and based on merit.

At the annual conference of prosecutors, Hovenier also spoke of corruption, saying corruption is cancer that not only poor ordinary citizens but undermines citizens' trust in democratic governments.

I've been encouraged to see how far Kosovars have progressed in achieving the establishment of a strong system of rule of law. In a relatively short time you've built a sophisticated legal framework you've improved access to justice you've reduced the number of old matter and pro-actively helped victims to obtain damages. You have also improved the internal discipline and performance assessment systems, an important step towards the creation of an accountability and professionalism culture, especially in the fight against high-level corruption and organised crime. Control of corruption strengthens the rule of law by contributing to stability, human rights and democracy. This also promotes economic growth and offers equal opportunities for businesses. Equally important, it narrows the possibilities for the actions of those involved in transnational criminal activities, terrorism and illegal trade”, he said.

The ambassador, among other things, cited a statement to US President Joe Biden, quoting: “Fighting corruption is not only good governance, it is self-defense, it is patriotism, and it is essential to preserving democracy and our future”.

The public opinion has great faith in you and urges you to take all necessary steps in co-operation with police to advance the fight for corruption. Among other things, fighting corruption requires prosecutors who act on the highest ethical standards. Public servants who refuse to make unwarranted compromises require a high standard of conduct, professionalism, justice and impartiality. Institutional indifference to corruption paves the way for increasing corruption. President Biden said: Fighting corruption is not only good governance, it is self-defense, it is patriotism, and it is essential to preserving democracy and our future. Corruption is cancer not only depleting ordinary citizens, but undermines citizens' trust in democratic governments. Right now, before you there is an important process: it is important that the Kosovo Prosecutorial Council maintain the process of fair, open selection and, based on” merits, Houvenier said.

We stress that Chief State Prosecutor Alexander Lumez is out of mandate in April of this year.