The association draws attention to, among other things, the case in which Justice Minister Leena Meri (ps) changed the mandate of the working group investigating the independence of courts and prosecutors.
Lawyers' Association demands an impartial investigation of the limits of political influence in the rule of law from the legality supervisor. According to the union, the report should concern all ministries.
“The investigation should be started immediately and all ministries should be investigated regarding the appropriateness of political influence”, President of the Jurists' Association Tuula Linna writes in his blog post.
The Jurists' Association does not mention the Minister of Justice Leena Mereä (ps) by name, but refers in its demand to recently reported cases in which Meri has intervened in the activities of various working groups. Helsingin sanomat newspaper reported on Mondaythat Meri had unexpectedly changed the mandate of the working group investigating the independence of courts and prosecutors.
Iltalehti reported on Tuesdaythat Meri has also blocked the bill on the criminalization of Holocaust denial.
According to the Jurists' Association, the place for political guidance is only at the stage when the proposals of the working groups start to be prepared for the government's proposals.
Lawyers' Association the bulletin warns that “worrisome features” have been seen in Mere's actions. The association invites all its member organizations and other stakeholders to express their opinion on the matter.
“We have reached a point where the rule of law called Finland needs our attention,” the announcement says.
Opposition Congressman Elisa Gebhardt (sd) asked a written question on Tuesday about Mere's intervention in the work of the working group investigating the independence of courts and prosecutors. Gebhard is a member of the legal committee.
“Setting up a working group on strengthening independence was an important decision at the time and a decision expected by industry players, and it is outrageous how Justice Minister Leena Meri is trying to water down the work that has already started,” says Gebhard in the bulletin.
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