Gunnarsson remains absent from duties amid legal scrutiny in Iceland

The Deputy State Prosecutor, Helgi Magnús Gunnarsson, has not returned to work despite expectations. The Minister of Justice decided in early September not to temporarily relieve him of his duties, although the State Prosecutor had requested this during the summer due to statements made publicly by Gunnarsson regarding asylum seekers and refugees, which were deemed inappropriate and inconsistent with his official role.

Gunnarsson expressed his satisfaction with the minister’s decision, describing it as the logical outcome of the situation and acknowledging that he believes he can continue to work alongside the State Prosecutor. He stated, “It has never been a problem on my part,” and emphasized that the matter is for the State Prosecutor to resolve moving forward.

However, legal expert Robert Spanó criticized the minister’s decision, asserting that it lacks legal justification. He noted that the issue at hand is not about Gunnarsson personally, but about the independence and impartiality of the prosecution authority in the country. Spanó highlighted the significant legal expectations for objectivity and general qualifications placed on prosecutors, especially those in high-ranking positions.

Spanó further argued that the minister’s reasoning, which suggested that Gunnarsson’s expressions should be viewed in light of the threatening context he faced, does not hold up under legal scrutiny. Such reasoning cannot lead to the dismissal of the State Prosecutor’s request for Gunnarsson to be relieved from his duties. This situation raises serious questions about the integrity and credibility of the prosecution authority in Iceland.