16. Broadcasting Justice: Why Macedonia Should Livestream Major Corruption Trials

A Note to Our Readers

The Macedonian Citizens Alliance is an independent, non-partisan platform committed to giving citizens a real voice in ending corruption and shaping a just, transparent, and prosperous future for Macedonia. We are not in favour or against any political party. We will support any government or opposition initiative that challenges corruption and promotes integrity and progress, but we will also hold all parties, leaders, and institutions accountable - regardless of affiliation. Macedonia has had enough of division. If you believe that political leaders and public officials should serve the people with honesty and with citizens’ interests as a priority, then support us. Our role is to keep every party, every official, and every institution honest - so that together, we can rebuild trust and create a better country for all.

When courtrooms are closed, corruption thrives. In Macedonia, many high-profile corruption cases unfold in silence—hidden behind procedural delays, legal jargon, and sealed transcripts. The public is left in the dark, wondering what happened, who’s responsible, and why justice never seems to come.

It’s time to shine a light on the legal process. It’s time for open justice—starting with broadcasting court proceedings for key corruption cases.

Justice Must Be Seen to Be Believed

A fair trial is the bedrock of any democracy. But fairness is not enough. Justice must be visible. Citizens must be able to see for themselves that:

• The accused are being held accountable,

• The process is impartial and transparent,

• And the outcomes are just—not politically engineered.

When people can witness the courtroom process, they don’t just watch justice—they begin to trust it.

Why Open Justice Matters in Corruption Cases

Corruption trials are not ordinary cases. They often involve public officials, stolen taxpayer money, and betrayal of public trust. In these cases, the public is the victim—and the public deserves to see the trial.

Broadcasting proceedings helps:

• Deter political interference and backroom deals

• Prevent judges and prosecutors from being pressured in secret

• Educate the public about legal rights and procedures

• Rebuild faith in a justice system too long shrouded in doubt

It also ensures that no case quietly disappears when public attention fades.

What Should Be Broadcast?

Not every case must be televised—but key corruption cases involving:

• Elected officials and government employees

• Major financial crimes and embezzlement

• Abuse of office with systemic impact

…should be subject to public broadcast, with court permission and safeguards for due process.

Full video recordings, livestreams, or delayed public access should be made available on a central government website and through national media.

Safeguards to Protect Fair Trials

Open justice must always balance transparency with fairness. That means:

• Protecting the identities of witnesses and whistleblowers where necessary

• Preventing trial by media or political manipulation

• Ensuring judges can restrict access in rare, justified situations (e.g. national security)

But these should be exceptions—not the rule.

Breaking the Culture of Silence

For too long, courtrooms in Macedonia have functioned like private clubs—where power protects power, and the public is shut out. This culture must end. Broadcasting trials does not weaken the courts. It strengthens them.

Let the people hear the evidence. Let them see the arguments. Let them watch justice being done, not just read about it in a vague press release six months later.

A Justice System That Belongs to the People

The courts are not the property of political parties, elites, or legal insiders. They belong to the people. And the people have the right to witness what happens when those in power are called to answer for their actions.

Let justice step out of the shadows. Let truth be televised.

Michael Penevski

Co-Founder, Macedonian Citizens Alliance

Michael Penevski holds a Bachelor of Law degree and is an investment banker specializing in private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and capital markets. A long-standing critic of political impunity, he has been a vocal advocate for transparency, systemic reform, economic revitalization, and citizen-led governance. Born into a family grounded in Macedonian values, Michael co-founded the Macedonian Citizens Alliance to help build a nation that serves its people - not the privileged few.

Macedonian Citizens Alliance

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