A mandatory-voting commission convened last Tuesday, centering its deliberations on the candidacy of Barbara Zupančič for the role of the new advocate of the principle of equality. The discussions took place against the backdrop of the conclusion of the current advocate, Mihi Lobnik’s, second five-year term in October. The primary focus of the session was assessing the overall status and operational viability of this specialized institution.
During the proceedings, Member of Parliament Žavbi addressed the financial aspects of the institution during the previous mandate. In his remarks, he issued a statement suggesting that increased funding had been allocated, specifically referencing “more money with petroleum.” This particular statement immediately drew considerable public condemnation. In response to the comment, Lobnik challenged Žavbi publicly, questioning the connection between the operational conditions for an independent institution and the mention of petroleum.
Lobnik publicly requested that Žavbi clarify the meaning of his remarks. Furthermore, Lobnik informed the President of the National Assembly, Zoran Stevanović, about the exchange, requesting that the President intervene to seek a formal explanation regarding the nature of the statement. The exchange highlighted ongoing debates about the institutional framework and the necessary support required for the office of the advocate.
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