Chairman Tariceanu to call on JusMin Pruna for wiretapping details

Senate Chairman Calin Popescu -Tariceanu on Sunday told Romania TV private television broadcaster that he would call on Justice Minister Raluca Pruna to explain "how wiretappings are done in Romania, who approves them and how many of them there are." 

"From this election on, I hope people will understand the traps they are drawn to everyday, minor issues that do not leave room for serious debates on the future of Romania: what do parties want to advance for the future of the citizens? What are they coming up with? What are the ways they use to make Romania a better place were Romanians would live better lives? And there's more, because in the end it is about a fundamental thing. Do Romanians feel terrorised, frightened in their own country? Is this the Romania we imagined 26 years ago? That is why next week I will ask some questions of the justice minister about how wiretappings are conducted in Romania, who approves them, how many of them there are, so as to see more details of this form of terror Romanians have started to feel," said Tariceanu. 

He added that strong and independent justice is needed, and an institution such as the Prosecution Service that will do its job. 

"Corruption is a major issue, a scourge in the Romanian society that has to be cut down to size. But, be warned that all this must be done in a democratic logic, while respecting their individual rights and freedoms, the rights and freedoms of citizens. In Romania, these things are not understood, as people believe the rule of law and strong institutions are intimidating the citizens. People feel terrorised, not only in the political quarters, but also in other circles, such as the business and academic ones, where people are frightened to talk. The bleakest atmosphere of Communism has started gaining reign,' said Tariceanu. 

He added that he has no issue with a recent plagiarism accusation against chief prosecutor of the National Anti-Corruption Directorate (DNA), Laura Codruta Kovesi, because she has to enjoy the presumption of innocence as well.AGERPRES