Maria Lepenioti criticizes judicial integrity and Council of Europe resolution

Maria Lepenioti, the Justice Sector Chief of EL.A.S. and former Vice President of the Supreme Court, has criticized the political treatment of convicted Golden Dawn members. She stated it is “unthinkable” that these individuals are presented as having social sensitivity or being close to vulnerable populations.

Lepenioti also described a recent resolution by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe regarding Greece as a “slap in the face” for the country. She noted that the resolution contradicts the Prime Minister’s positive portrayal of the nation and suggests that the Committee should investigate whether the principles of the rule of law are being upheld and if human rights are being violated.

Furthermore, she raised concerns regarding corruption among high-ranking public officials, state interference in major criminal cases, and the process for selecting leadership in high courts. She specifically referenced the OPEKEPE and Predator spyware scandals, noting that the Council of Europe resolution calls for thorough investigations without the use of confidentiality claims to obstruct progress.