Skopje, 12 February 2023 (MIA) - The Government is strongly committed to countering corruption, says Deputy PM for good governance policies Slavica Grkovska.

 

"Citizens expect justice and want to see a system that functions for all, no double standards in justice but rule of law and laws equal for all. Corruption is a real problem and the way we counter it determines our economic prosperity. Therefore, we must all solve it together - Government, judicial system, legislature, citizens, media, civil society. I have said on numerous occasions that the problem cannot be solved individually, we should apply a coordinated and systemic approach. This is the only way to real success," Deputy PM Grkovska told Detektor.

 

On the analysis of corruption perception, she says one has to consider that today we speak openly about corruption, adding that North Macedonia has recorded a two-spot improvement at this year's Corruption Perceptions Index, which is not sufficient but shows certain progress, the Government said in a press release.

 

The Deputy PM also comments on the latest survey by the Institute of Political Research-Skopje that shows 57.1 percent of respondents saying there is a lot of corruption in the judicial system.

 

"The prosecution and the judiciary have a constitutionally guaranteed independence and therefore must independently, professionally and responsibly make decisions. The state gives the judiciary's independence but judges and prosecutors should foster and enhance it further. This independence cannot serve as screen for them to make completely 'dependant and vague' decisions," says Grkovska.

 

She adds that accountability and responsibility are part of the good governance principles, and they must be implemented, while unlawful and non-transparent activities must be held accountable.