The Verkhovna Rada supported the reform of the prosecutor’s office: what changes are proposed
On November 11, the Verkhovna Rada supported in the first reading draft law No. 16144, which changes the rules for evaluating the work of prosecutors, their appointment to managerial positions, and disciplinary action.
This was reported by the press service of the Verkhovna Rada.
The draft law provides for amendments to the Law “On the Prosecutor’s Office” within the framework of Ukraine’s European integration obligations. Its authors propose to review personnel procedures, strengthen the independence of prosecutorial self-government, and improve disciplinary mechanisms.
In particular, the document introduces new approaches to assessing the quality of prosecutors’ work. To this end, it proposes defining rules for forming evaluation commissions and requirements for their members.
The bill also changes the procedure for appointing prosecutors to administrative positions. Candidates for management positions will be selected according to certain criteria.
Separate changes concern the Council of Prosecutors of Ukraine. The authors of the document propose to strengthen its independence, expand its powers, and create a separate secretariat.
In addition, the draft law provides for updating the work of the Qualification and Disciplinary Commission of Prosecutors and expanding the list of disciplinary sanctions.
The document also specifies which actions of the prosecutor will be considered a disciplinary offense, what the complaint should contain, and under what circumstances the commission may refuse to open disciplinary proceedings.
The authors of the initiative expect that such changes will help eliminate legal uncertainty regarding the liability of prosecutors.
The bill also proposes amendments to the Code of Administrative Procedure and laws on the prevention of corruption, the bar, and the civil service.
So far, the Verkhovna Rada has only supported the document as a basis. It will now be prepared for a second reading and a final vote.