DUI for Dameva's resignation: Reflects the alarming state of state capture and the collapse of the independence of institutions

The Democratic Union for Integration calls the resignation of the head of the Judicial Council, Vesna Dameva, a dramatic moment that, as it says, reflects the alarming state of state capture and the collapse of the independence of institutions. DUI say that this situation is a reflection that the Government, as they call it from there, illegitimate and irresponsible, does not stop in its efforts to extend control over every segment of the state.

"The resignation of the head of the Judicial Council, Vesna Dameva, marks another dramatic moment that reflects the alarming state of state capture and the destruction of the independence of institutions. The personal attacks, political pressures and public manipulations described by Ms. Dameva are a clear picture of the illegitimate and irresponsible government, which does not stop at efforts to extend control over every segment of the state."

Read too Dameva has resigned from the position of chairwoman of the Judicial Council

"This government has not only failed to guarantee a fair and independent judicial system, but is using every means to blackmail and discredit those who are not willing to bow to political pressure. When high officials of justice, charged with the protection of law and justice, are publicly blackmailed, the message that is conveyed is clear: in this country, institutional independence has become the enemy of the government."

"The Democratic Union for Integration strongly condemns the political attacks against Mrs. Dameva and the brutal interventions against the integrity of the Judicial Council. Such attacks are not only a personal attack on an individual, but also an attempt to paralyze the entire judicial system, undermining any attempt at real reform and independent justice. We call on international institutions to closely monitor this situation and react to North Macedonia's continued slide into authoritarianism and total state capture. It is clear that citizens cannot expect justice from a government that attacks the institutions of justice for political gains", says DUI.

In the end, they emphasize that the independence of the judiciary is the pillar of any democracy and its capture is an act that threatens the stability and future of the country.

"The Democratic Union for Integration will always stand in defense of independent institutions and justice, because we believe that free and impartial justice is the only guarantee for a fair and equal society", says DUI.