Coalition of Smer, Hlas, and SNS made life easier for mafia
The coalition of Smer, Hlas, and SNS approved the amendment to the Criminal Code despite EU objections and mass protests. It abolishes the Office of the Special Prosecutor and substantially reduces the penalties and the statute of limitations for corruption, economic crimes, tax and other fraud, as well as rape. Conversely, it toughens penalties for soft drugs. It weakens the position of cooperating witnesses. The coalition argues the changes are needed as it deems the anti-corruption probes under the former government to be politically motivated.
Given the seriousness of the changes and a lack of discussion, President Zuzana Čaputová will take steps to ensure that the amendment does not take effect at all. She pointed out that the amendment was written by lawyers of people close to Smer who are facing charges and whose position the amendment will improve. The Gorila case, as well as the cases of Miroslav Výboh, Petr Žiga, and Petr Kažimír would be time-barred. People such as Tibor Gašpar and Norbert Bödör will be eligible for suspended sentences.
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