Moldova’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office issued a press release today, November 11, in response to the findings of the Supreme Security Council (SCC) and President Maia Sandu’s statement that the agency has “completely failed.”
It cited a serious shortage of personnel, including prosecutors and officials, as well as the lack of a functional office and specialized investigation team.
The AP notes that around 50% of the positions remain vacant and that there are also no adequate budgetary resources to carry out the tasks and functions of the prosecutor’s office, including the lack of a special investigative office and team.
“Due to the latest legislative changes that came into effect in March, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office no longer has the authority to investigate corruption in elections, but the government could take into account the experience of the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office in investigating such cases and combat “This antisocial phenomenon that undermines the national security system,” – Veronica Dragali stood out at the institution.
Previously, the head of the Administration warned that starting in early April 2024, her department would not be able to effectively investigate high-level corruption cases and apply special investigative measures against ministers, deputies, judges and prosecutors. The reason for this is the lack of facilities and personnel as required by law.
“That is, for corruption crimes of the highest level (committed by special subjects: ministers, deputies, judges, prosecutors), our institute does not have the human and material resources to guarantee visual surveillance, interception, transfer of money under control and other special investigative actions”, – Dragalin stated.
Currently, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office is located in the same building as the National Anti-Corruption Center (CNC).
The Supreme Security Council today recommended that the government make changes within the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. President Maia Sandu said after the CSM meeting that the PA had suffered “a complete failure in the fight against major corruption, and especially in the fight against political corruption.”
As reported EADaily Several months ago, the head of Moldova’s Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, Veronica Dragalin, stated that there is no corruption in the highest echelons of power in the republic. According to her, there are no informants in the institution who can talk about such demonstrations. Dragalin complained that there are few complaints against officials and this complicates the Administration’s work.
“Until a person comes and says: “They asked me for a very high-level bribe,” until we have requests from SIS about such a scheme, until there is an operational analysis of the Anti-Corruption Center, then, as a prosecutor, I cannot say “yes.” , there is high-level corruption” until you see evidence. When we receive specific information, we can initiate an investigation and then open a corruption case.” — concluded Verónica Dragalin.
