Romanian magistrates’ body, the Superior Council of the Magistracy (CSM), unanimously endorsed the nomination of Laura Kovesi for a second term at the helm of the Romanian National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA) on March 28.

Under Kovesi, the DNA has become increasingly active in tackling high-level corruption. Those targeted by DNA prosecutors include former prime minister Victor Ponta, who was charged with fraud while in office in 2015, and numerous other current and former minister, government officials and businesspeople.

Kovesi is now close to another three-year term at the DNA after being nominated by minister of justice Raluca Pruna, though her appointment still has to be approved by president Klaus Iohannis.

Outlining the progress of the DNA’s activity during her interview with the CSM board, Kovesi said that the number of investigations and of indicted public servants increased by 50% compared to 2012, the year before she took office.

More people have been taken on by the DNA, and currently 92% of the DNA positions are filled. The activity of the regional DNA offices has improved.

The confidence enjoyed by DNA in polls increased from 40% to 61% during her term, Kovesi stressed.

The DNA’s activity under Kovesi was also praised by the European Commission in its latest report on Romania’s progress under the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism, which measures judicial reform and the fight against corruption in Romania and Bulgaria. The report, published in January, noted the “impressive” track record in addressing high-level corruption.