The Appellate Court of Montenegro has affirmed that the personal and professional reasons behind Judge Vesna Moštrokol’s resignation deserve adequate protection regarding privacy and the dignity of judicial functions. This statement comes in response to media claims regarding the composition change in the panel overseeing the high-profile case known as the “state coup.”
According to the court’s announcement, Moštrokol’s request for the change in the panel was made personally. She had been leading the judges in the Appellate Court tasked with deciding on an appeal by the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) related to this significant case. The court emphasized its commitment to proceed in accordance with the law and procedural rules, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are respected.
The Appellate Court reiterated that any procedural implications stemming from panel changes will adhere strictly to the Criminal Procedure Code and established judicial practices. The statement highlighted the necessity of safeguarding the legality of the proceedings and ensuring impartial decision-making.
In a further clarification, the court announced that it will not comment on the ongoing deliberations or any procedural actions related to the case. They stressed that such commentary could unduly influence the process and potentially compromise the fairness of the trial.
The Appellate Court remains dedicated to transparency, within the limits prescribed by law, while reinforcing the principle that public trust in the judiciary is built upon lawful and impartial conduct, rather than media speculation.
