Judicial reform needs real changes in how the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) works, says Emilia Vasileva, a judge at the Supreme Court of Cassation (Commercial Chamber). She is running for a seat on the council in the judges' professional quota.
The general assembly of judges votes today to choose the members of the new SJC from this quota.
Vasileva backs a steady policy on appointments and discipline, a fair split of workload and resources, and more effective justice. She says the SJC represents the magistrates and must guarantee and protect their independence.
On discipline, she proposes a review of past practice and more consistent use of the criteria for holding magistrates to account. She says the workload can be eased by changing the law, improving procedures and making better use of the court administration.
Vasileva says she is running because she is convinced that responsible, objective, consistent, effective and efficient management of the judicial system will let magistrates deliver justice independently, to a high standard, within a reasonable time and in a calm environment. She says judges expect such an environment, and that objective, predictable, professional and responsible management of the SJC will help create it.
She says public trust in the judiciary must be restored through an independent, transparent and accountable SJC.