Oana Gheorghiu, reaction after the CSM report: "I am guilty of discrediting the justice system"

Oana Gheorghiu, interim deputy prime minister, reacted to the report of the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM), stating that she takes responsibility for the "discrediting of justice" through her statements about the special pensions of magistrates. Gheorghiu argues that Romania can no longer afford special pensions for those who retire at 48-50 years old, receiving pensions higher than the average salary.

Although she acknowledges the importance of an independent and well-paid judiciary, she believes that privileges do not contribute to the fairness of the system. The deputy prime minister emphasized that no institution in a democracy should be exempt from criticism, including the CSM, which has denounced actions that denigrate justice.

Oana Gheorghiu emphasizes that judges deserve real independence and salaries that guarantee this, but at the same time, when there are unjustified privileges or benefits, she believes that every citizen has the right to express their opinion freely. She reiterated that unjustified privileges must be challenged, highlighting that the money allocated for special pensions could be used for the essential needs of society.