Editorial: Confusion

The previous government hastened before the elections to pass the new criminal code into law.

That haste has had repercussions, as the confusion that certain provisions have created regarding the principles governing law enforcement.

That confusion makes the work of Greek police more difficult.

A document in the possession of Ta Nea indicates that law enforcement authorities do not know if they can check suspects without the presence of a judicial functionary.

The updating of the criminal code was necessary but the fast-track effort to pass it into law immediately was not. Indeed it proved harmful.

For a contemporary state to function smoothly under the rule of law clear rules are needed and not ambiguities that allow lawbreakers to function unhindered or that allow arbitrary police behaviour.

It is indicative that a provision that required a female law enforcement officer to conduct a body search on a woman was abolished.

It is impermissible for a state with a 200-year history, a long legal tradition, and excellent legal scholars to become caught up in such confusion.

Consequently, the new penal code must swiftly be revised to provide greater clarity so that Greek Police can have a clear picture of how to carry out its duties – the rules of engagement and its obligations to Greek citizens.