Ivan Turudić steps into role of attorney general

Ivan Turudić became Croatia's attorney general on Monday, taking over the office from Zlata Hrvoj Šipek. 

Turudić is a controversial figure and his nomination was fiercely challenged by the opposition, who during his confirmation process in Parliament claimed that he was biased toward the HDZ and had ties too close to a number of people accused, and some convicted, of corruption. Here he is speaking to the media.

"The attorney general can't get anything done without cooperation with the authorities, with the government, especially the Ministry of Justice. I will try to meet with Justice Minister Damir Habijan this week. The Ministry, that is the Government, secures the funding for the work of the Attorney General's Office, and more importantly, provides legislative support," said Turudić speaking to the media on Monday.

He also said he believed it was crucial to change several laws including ones regulating the work of the anti-corruption agency USKOK, the Attorney General's Office, and the Criminal Procedures Act.

"This is a job with a lot of responsibility and an important role in our society. Mr. Turudić went through the process that is required by law and I wish him all the best and I believe he will have a successful term in office,” said Deputy Prime Minister Davor Božinović.

SDP MP Arsen Bauk pointed out that opposition's objections to a political decision to nominate Turudić for the position remains unchanged.

"We expect the attorney general to work in line with and live up to the oath of office. Our job as members of parliament is to live up to our oath and that means monitoring his work and raising the alarm if something requires it,” said Bauk.

Bauk said the opposition's expectations of Tudurić were not very high.

Sandra Benčić of Mozemo believes that systemic changes to the Attorney General's Office are needed in order to demonstrate independence and the capability of prosecuting important corruption cases. Turudić does not have her trust.

"As a judge he directly involved himself and advised a defendant in a corruption case that was before the court where he was the chief justice,” said Benčić.

She added that Turudić had lied to the public on several occasions, specifically about his relationship and communication with former HDZ politician Josipa Rimac who has been charged with corruption.

"We'd like to know the Homeland Movement's position on this since they opposed his nomination. Now that they are with the HDZ, they support him as the attorney general. I hope that they, as the majority, will insist that Ivan Turudić performs his job responsibly and honorably,” said Nikola Grmoja of Most.