The beginning of the main trial was postponed 50 times, and that was based on the indictment for organized crime, while six years have passed since its indictment. It is possible that it will finally start today (Tuesday, May 23rd).
This is an example of the trial against Alija Delimustafic, the former Minister of Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), who was accused of organized crime before the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo. The indictment against him was confirmed in 2017, but the trial has not yet started.
The Cantonal Court told that the six-year delay in the process has so far cost taxpayers in Sarajevo more than half a million BAM (about 250.000 euros).
At the same time, his defense attorney Ifet Feraget adds that the beginning of the main trial has been announced again for May 23rd.
What are the reasons for delaying the start of the trial?
In the Sarajevo Cantonal Court, they emphasized that the most common reasons for delaying the start of the trial are “procedural deficiencies for holding the scheduled hearings”.
They add that, in addition, some of the reasons are the reports of bombs in this court, which is why the work of this judicial institution is being suspended.
What do they say in the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council (HJPC) of BiH?
Members of the HJPC of BiH are judges and prosecutors from the entire territory of BiH. That body has the authority to appoint judges and prosecutors at the state, entity, cantonal, district, elementary, and municipal levels, including Brcko District, with the exception of entity constitutional courts.
They mentioned that there are no legal provisions prescribing the optimal duration of court proceedings, Slobodna Evropa Reports.
E.Dz.
