The anticipated face-to-face meeting between the National Magistrates Association, led by Giuseppe Santalucia, and the Minister of Justice, Carlo Nordio, has not yet taken place. Both parties have made it clear that they have very different positions on various issues. At the moment, the tones are conciliatory, but it remains to be seen if there are conditions for a constructive dialogue between the two parties. Nordio announced his presence at the 36th congress of the Anm in Palermo, aiming to lower the heated debate that has been ongoing.
Carlo Nordio, the Minister of Justice, expressed his respect towards the magistrates by deciding to attend the congress in Palermo, despite logistical difficulties. The congress, titled “Magistracy and law between impartiality and interpretation,” addressed several key issues including reforms, separation of careers, abolishment of abuse of office, and the role of magistrates in the justice debate. The presence of top officials like President Sergio Mattarella, Senate President Ignazio La Russa, and others added significance to the event. Giuseppe Santalucia, president of the Anm, strongly opposed the project of separating careers, stating that it could weaken judicial jurisdiction, especially in criminal cases. He also criticized the abolishment of the abuse of office offense.
The Vice Minister of Justice, Francesco Paolo Sisto, tried to reassure prosecutors and judges and calm down the debate by emphasizing the importance of dialogue and maintaining independence and autonomy of the judiciary. However, Matteo Salvini, leader of the League party, took a harsh stance on the issue of the arrest of Liguria Governor Giovanni Toti, questioning whether there were wiretaps in magistrate offices and insisting that the burden of proof lies with the accuser. Nordio also clarified that it is the accuser’s responsibility to prove the guilt of the accused, not the other way around, in a democratic society.
The ongoing debate at the congress in Palermo revolves around crucial topics such as the separation of careers, judicial independence, and the involvement of magistrates in the political debate on justice. Santalucia stressed the importance of magistrates participating in political discussions related to justice issues. The tone of the discussion varied, with some speakers advocating for dialogue and cooperation to ensure that justice remains a field of constructive disagreement, rather than conflict. The presence of top political figures and the participation of various stakeholders highlighted the significance of the event.
The discussions at the congress highlighted the divide between the National Magistrates Association and the Minister of Justice, as well as various politicians. While efforts were made to lower the tensions and emphasize the importance of dialogue and respect, differing opinions on key issues persisted. The event served as a platform for discussing important reforms, legal principles, and the role of magistrates in the justice system, showcasing the complexities and challenges faced by stakeholders in addressing these issues. The participation of top officials and the attention drawn to the debate underscored the importance of finding common ground and working towards a more effective and impartial justice system.
