The intensity of interviews with candidates for judicial positions at the Anti-Corruption Court
For two weeks, interviews with candidates for 23 vacant positions in the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) have been ongoing, where not only their professional achievements are discussed but also issues concerning their integrity and declared property.
The Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine continues the process of forming its judicial body, starting from June of last year, when the High Qualification Commission of Judges announced the third competition for positions in the HACC. The new selection system allows for candidacies in both the first and appellate instances simultaneously. In the context of this competition, interviews are held where international experts and commission members inquire about the candidates’ past activities, their property, and potential conflicts of interest.
Among other matters, the interviews address cases of using the Unified State Register of Court Decisions for personal interests, undeclared real estate, and abnormally low incomes. For example, lawyer Iryna Kuzina has chosen a policy of confidentiality regarding her incomes, while judge Vita Matolich faced suspicion regarding the use of a parental car not included in her declaration.
Additionally, questions emerged about the insufficient knowledge of legal concepts among some candidates and participation in questionable activities. One such case involves incumbent HACC judge Viktor Maslov, who attempted to explain the prolonged presence of the panel in the consultation room concerning the Onyschenko case.
Despite the many issues and disagreements discussed, the candidates’ motivation varies: from an interest in practice and in-depth study of law, as with Mykhailo Yatsynenko, to a desire for professional growth, as explained by Viktor Antypenko.
The successful selection process of judges is a crucial step for Ukraine in fulfilling international obligations and obtaining support within the framework of the Ukraine Facility Plan. A transparent and objective process of evaluating candidates and reviewing their dossiers becomes an important step in ensuring the reliability of the justice system in the country.
| Candidate | Problematic issues | Argumentation |
| Iryna Kuzina | Non-disclosure of incomes in the declaration | Confidentiality policy |
| Vita Matolich | Undisclosed car | Commuting to work |
| Oleksandr Ostrohliad | Low incomes and undeclared expenses | Family assistance |
| Yevhen Kapitonov | Inconsistencies in declarations | Admission |
