Judicial Reform to Break Pathological Factions’ Link: Nordio

Rome: Justice Minister Carlo Nordio on Thursday emphasized the significance of a Constitutional reform bill aimed at separating the career paths of prosecutors and judges. This reform, having received initial approval from the Lower House, is positioned to enhance the independence of the judiciary rather than impede it, contrary to the concerns raised by its critics.

According to Ansa News Agency, Nordio, while addressing the Senate, described the reform as “the mother of all reforms.” He highlighted key components such as the establishment of the High Court of Justice and the introduction of a lottery system for magistrates, both expected to bring multiple benefits to the judiciary. The reform bill also proposes the creation of a high court tasked with disciplining judiciary members and revising the composition and election process within the judiciary’s self-governing body, the Superior Council of Magistrates (CSM).

Nordio asserted that while the judiciary maintains independence from executive power, it lacks independence from its internal factions, particularly those within the National Association of Magistrates (ANM). He noted that these factions hold significant sway over judiciary members, often protecting them. The proposed reform aims to dismantle the “pathological connection” between voters and elected members within the CSM, with the most critical issues arising within its disciplinary branch.