I never really hoped that the corner stone of a democratic judiciary, which is "presumed innocent until proven guilty", would have a chance in Romania. Our history, our mentality do not make us prone to accepting free thinking; on the contrary, it makes us perfect candidates for accepting the "presumed guilty" rule of thumb.

One case in point is the one of George Copos, deputy premier. He found out from television reports that prosecutors investigated him for his business deals, before actually getting his subpoena in the mail.

If that is the treatment a person in high places gets, one can only infer what lay citizens get. No one is safe anymore, when one may be publicly tried and declared guilty just for taking a breath.

For what did actually wrong Copos? And which are the charges against Adrian Nastase sformer executive president of the Social Democrat Party, in oppositiont? The latter was politically executed with a shot from the hip. By the time the court will conclude in a final ruling that his wife inherited a legitimate wealth it would be too late for him. The paper that ruling would be written on would be good just for wrapping his lunch sandwich in.

Do read me right: I do not claim to know either Copos or Nastase are innocent. I do not defend their innocence, but a fundamental principle for the rule of law. Those rejoicing today for the political fall of the two might want to think again, before their turn will come.

We turned into a nation of prosecutors only; one more reason for Ceausescu sNicolae, former Romanian dictatort to smile back at us, with a grin which is to stuck on his face forever.

Translated by ANCA PADURARU I never really hoped that the corner stone of a democratic judiciary, which is "presumed innocent until proven guilty", would have a chance in Romania. Our history, our mentality do not make us p