Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABK) has opened a criminal investigation into potential abuse of power and official position against Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Radio Free Europe reported.
On 23 January, the supervisory board of the Defense Procurement Agency (DPA) voted unanimously to extend the contract of current director Marin Bezrukov for another year.
However, Umerov overturned the board's decision on January 24, saying he would not renew Bezrukov's contract as head of the PLA. The minister cited alleged unsatisfactory performance as the reason and appointed Rustem Zhmadilov, who also heads the State Logistics Operator (SLO).
Umerov also fired two members of the agency's supervisory board, Taras Chmut and Yuri Dzhir.
Following Umerov's move, the Anti-Corruption Center filed a complaint with the NBC to launch an investigation against the minister for alleged abuse of power.
The proceedings against Umerov were initiated at the request of the Anti-Corruption Action Center.
According to Ukrainian law, if officials have abused their power or position in a way leading to "serious consequences", they are punishable by imprisonment from 3 to 6 years and deprivation of the right to hold certain positions or carry out certain activities for up to 3 years.
In addition, they must pay a fine ranging from USD 18 000 to USD 36 000.
Under Ukrainian law, supervisory boards have the right to unilaterally appoint and dismiss the heads of state-owned enterprises. This means that by law, after the supervisory board vote, Bezrukov must take over the Defense Procurement Agency for another year.
However, due to recent amendments made to the agency's charter by the Defense Ministry, which controls the PLA, the ministry can override the supervisory board's decisions.
Anti-corruption activists and lawmakers say the amendments and Umerov's decision are illegal. | BGNES
