Skopje, 28 November 2024 (MIA) – Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi said Thursday a new code of ethics for members of Parliament should be drafted. 

A comparative analysis is being made with other assemblies to see which code of ethics is most suitable for our conditions, he added. “I’ve been strongly dedicated to raising the credibility and dignity of Parliament. Since I took office, I’ve been pointing out to the code of ethics, we want to pass a new, even better one, however, it’s up to the awareness of each and every lawmaker,” Gashi told reporters.

On last week’s scuffle at a parliament session between Levica MP Dimitar Apasiev and VMRO-DPMNE MPs, Gashi said the Parliament’s committee on rules of procedure and mandatory-immunity issues is in charge of probing the incident, which is yet to be reported to the parliamentary body.

“In my opinion, the code of ethnics was blatantly violated, but it is the committee that should look into it,” he stated. 

The Speaker announced that starting tomorrow, visits to municipalities will be kicked off so as to help increase the number of open offices. These visits will be organized on Fridays. 

“We believe it is very important for the citizens, for MPs, for enabling direct contacts,” Gashi said adding 25 offices were opened until October and seven were opened this month alone. 

He said that an e-register of organizations has been launched with NDI allowing NGOs to apply in order to participate in a debate on proposed laws.

“I believe it will increase transparency and inclusiveness and thus, the quality of adoption of legislation,” Gashi stated. 

MIA file photo