Prosecutor General’s Office Denies European Commission’s Rule of Law Report
The European Commission’s annual rule of law report on Hungary’s prosecution service contains several inaccuracies, according to the Prosecutor General’s Office. The office refuted claims of political influence and stated that all cases are handled professionally and lawfully. They urged individuals to report any instances of political interference for thorough investigation.
In a specific case involving Péter Magyar, leader of the Tisza Party, who alleged political influence and document manipulation, an extensive investigation led to the case’s closure. The report’s assertion that court decisions overruling prosecutors’ decisions are non-binding was disputed. The statement clarified that an investigating judge can set aside contested decisions, thus enforcing them.
The prosecutor’s office emphasized its independence and the fact that it cannot be forced to press charges. However, individuals can bring cases to court, although this has never occurred, indicating the legality of the office’s actions.
The Commission’s objections to the hierarchical structure of Hungary’s prosecution service were deemed inaccurate and misleading by the statement. The Consultative Council of European Prosecutors and the Venice Commission have endorsed the hierarchical structure. The Hungarian prosecution service operates autonomously, free from political interference, with laws ensuring independence and preventing corruption.
Regarding high-level corruption, the prosecution noted that the Hungarian Criminal Code does not recognize “high-level corruption.” The office has indicted several senior officials in corruption cases. Contrary to the report’s claim that public sector corruption remains high, a Eurobarometer survey indicated that Hungary ranks in the middle of EU member states in terms of perceived corruption affecting daily life.
In conclusion, the Prosecutor General’s Office asserted that the allegations in the Rule of Law Report are untrue and misleading. They emphasized that the Hungarian prosecution service acts professionally and lawfully in all cases, free from political influence. Court decisions have confirmed the correctness of the office’s actions.
