Philenews

Attempt to Criminalize Misconduct of Ministers and Officials Fails

Published February 11, 2026, 09:23
Attempt to Criminalize Misconduct of Ministers and Officials Fails

A second attempt to criminalize the responsibility of ministers and state officials for actions that harm the Republic appears to be failing. The bill submitted by a DISY MP, which provided for prison sentences or monetary penalties for ministers, deputy ministers, and other officials who violate the Constitution, did not gain support in the Parliament's Legal Committee. Both MPs and representatives of the Legal Service and the Ministry of Justice expressed reservations, believing that the criminalization of political life would lead to fear and inaction on the part of officials. Existing legislation, such as the declaration of assets, is considered sufficient to address corruption and mismanagement. The proposed law also extended to deputy ministers and other state officials, creating a framework for judicial investigation even for events such as “patronage”. However, concerns were raised about the vague wording of certain offenses, the possibility of arbitrary interpretations, and the creation of a two-tiered application of the law. The Ministry of Justice had submitted a similar bill in 2013, which was subsequently withdrawn due to reservations. The debate on the need to strengthen the accountability of state officials continues, however, criminalizing their responsibility does not appear to be an easy solution.