Debate in Parliament will continue on Wednesday until midnight. This is unusual, and the result of stalling tactics used by the opposition to delay the passing of bills that would change the criminal justice system. They have started now by asking for more speaking time on the budget and the consolidation matters, which have to pass before parliament turns to the criminal law changes.
The proposals aim to abolish the Special Prosecutor’s Office, which specializes in corruption and organized crime; and it wants to change the protection of Whistleblowers.
The coalition has a majority in parliament so it will eventually get its way.
But the opposition objects not only to the content of the bills, but also the fact that the majority wants to rush them through parliament in a fast-track procedure.
It wants to draw attention to the changes, by keeping debate alive for as long as possible.
Dozens of MP’s for the three largest opposition parties have requested speaking time. They aim to continue between Christmas and New Year.
If the bills pass, they will be submitted to the President for approval. If she vetoes, the proposals will be back in parliament for a new vote. All this could delay final passage until the end of January.
(TASR)
