Supreme Judicial Council

Iraq's Supreme Judicial Council on Tuesday banned the activities of three parties for links with the terrorist PKK group.

In a statement, the council outlawed the "Ezidi Freedom and Democracy" party, the "Democratic Struggle Front" and the "Kurdistan Community Freedom" party, and ordered confiscation of their properties.

The European Commission is examining the recent decision by the Bulgarian Constitutional Court that annulled significant portions of the judicial reform in Bulgaria. This decision, made on July 26, has prompted the Commission to review its potential consequences.

The Constitutional Court of Bulgaria has ruled against a significant portion of the recent judicial reform amendments to the Constitution. The Court deemed many of these changes unconstitutional, particularly those that proposed dividing the Supreme Judicial Council into two separate entities: the Supreme Judicial Council and the Supreme Prosecutor's Council.

The European Commission's report on the rule of law in Bulgaria for the past year highlights a lack of progress in securing effective investigations and a sufficient number of final convictions for high-level corruption. It also points out the need for reforms in the anti-corruption commission.

The outgoing Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Nikolai Denkov, has raised concerns over alleged misconduct by acting Prosecutor General Borislav Sarafov, prompting further investigation into the matter. Denkov's actions come in response to reports of psychological pressure exerted on Zhivko Kotsev, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, leading to his potential resignation.

President Rumen Radev has taken a decisive stance against amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code, effectively vetoing provisions aimed at reinstating the Plenum of the Supreme Judicial Council and bolstering the powers of the Prosecutor General.

Bulgarian lawmakers made significant strides with the second reading of constitutional amendments, endorsing a pivotal change in the process of appointing and dismissing the Prosecutor General.

In a session held on Monday, Parliament advanced the 2024 State Budget Bill at its first reading, marking a significant legislative step forward. The bill received 144 votes in favor, 66 against, and no abstentions.

The National Assembly has taken a significant step by passing the Bill for Amendment and Supplement to the Constitution during its initial reading. This comprehensive amendment introduces pivotal reforms aimed at bolstering the independence of the judiciary, restructuring the Supreme Judicial Council, reforming the Prosecutor's Office, and refining the institution of caretaker cabinets.

"For me, May 24 has always been the brightest holiday that unites us all. For myself, I have no doubt that May 24 is the most suitable day for a national holiday". This was said by Prime Minister Academician Nikolay Denkov, who returned from a one-day visit to Greece.