A package of 27 draft laws that create the conditions for implementation of a broader justice system reform should be examined and adopted by the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs, Public Administration and Human Rights until March, ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Albania scheduled for June 18, 2017.

The ‘ad hoc’ Parliamentary commission on judicial reform convened Friday to discuss the legal packages which envisages a series of amendments designed to regulate the reorganization and functioning of the justice system institutions following the unanimous adoption of the long-awaited judicial reforms and the constitutional changes package in July 22.

The head of the ‘ad hoc’ Parliamentary commission, Fatmir Xhafaj, told reporters after the meeting that July vote on the constitutional package paved the way for the overhaul of the country’s justice system, whereas the adoption of seven organic laws cleared the way for creation of new justice institutions. Xhafaj added that the package of 27 draft laws will allow for the efficient functioning of the new justice institutions.

The Socialist MP said that the proposed legislation is crucial as it will regulate functioning of the system and administration of justice. The proposed legal package will be examined by the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs, Public Administration and Human Rights since the special ‘ad hoc’ commission on judicial reform has achieved its goal after being created two years ago, in November 2014. 

After the meeting the Chairman of the Ad Hoc Commission on Judicial Reform called on the Constitutional Court to stay true to the Venice Commission’s opinion on the Vetting Law, and to exert its duty in the function of the country’s interest.