The Government on Wednesday approved a bill drafted by the Ministry of Justice aiming to support the reform of the institution of investigative judges, IPN reports..

“There is a need to clarify the precise conditions for appointing and suspending investigative judges, as the current legislation does not contain clear provisions in this respect”, argued Deputy Justice Minister Nicolae Esanu.

Under the bill, investigative judges will be appointed for a 3-year term and will be prohibited from holding two consecutive terms. Only professionals with at least 3 years' experience as a judge will be eligible for the job. Candidates will be selected by the chairperson of the court and then proposed to the Superior Council of Magistracy.

Following appointment by the Superior Council and until assuming office, the appointee will attend special courses organized by the National Institute of Justice.

The bill also includes provisions that will allow for the immediate suspension of the chairmen and deputy chairmen of courts whenever a decision exists to remove them, on grounds including disciplinary ones, until the removal is formally approved by the President of Moldova. This, according to the drafters, will prevent the judicial process from being jeopardized.