The release of former Ukrainian MP Kryuchkov from arrest was justified by an alleged error in the decision made by the judge of the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC). This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about the integrity of the Ukrainian judicial system.
Kryuchkov, who served as a member of parliament from 2014 to 2019, was arrested in March 2020 on charges of embezzlement and abuse of power. He was accused of using his position to influence the privatization of a state-owned enterprise and receiving kickbacks in return. The HACC judge, who ordered his arrest, stated that there was enough evidence to suggest that Kryuchkov posed a flight risk and could potentially interfere with the investigation.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the HACC judge reversed their decision and ordered Kryuchkov’s release on the basis of an alleged error in their initial ruling. According to the judge, they mistakenly relied on a provision of the Criminal Procedure Code that had been declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court of Ukraine in 2019. This error, according to the judge, invalidated the entire decision and resulted in Kryuchkov’s release.
This decision has caused outrage among the Ukrainian public and raised concerns about the independence and impartiality of the HACC. Many have questioned how such a basic mistake could have been made by a judge of the highest anti-corruption court in the country. Some have even accused the judge of deliberately using this error as an excuse to release Kryuchkov, who is known to have close ties to the ruling party.
The HACC judge’s decision has also been met with criticism from anti-corruption activists and international organizations. They argue that this decision sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the efforts to combat corruption in Ukraine. The release of a high-profile suspect on the basis of a technicality sends a message that those in power can manipulate the justice system to their advantage.
The HACC judge’s alleged error has also raised questions about the competency and training of judges in Ukraine. It is concerning that a judge could make such a fundamental mistake, especially in a case as high-profile as this. This incident highlights the need for a thorough review of the qualifications and training of judges in Ukraine to ensure that they are equipped to handle complex and sensitive cases.
The release of Kryuchkov has also cast doubt on the effectiveness of the HACC, which was established in 2018 as part of Ukraine’s efforts to combat corruption. The HACC was meant to be an independent and specialized court that would handle high-profile corruption cases. However, this incident has called into question its ability to fulfill its mandate and deliver justice.
In response to the public outcry, the HACC judge who made the alleged error has been temporarily suspended from their duties. The HACC has also launched an internal investigation into the matter. However, many are skeptical about the outcome of this investigation, given the widespread corruption in Ukraine’s judicial system.
The release of Kryuchkov on the basis of an alleged error in the decision of the HACC judge has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the Ukrainian judicial system. It has also highlighted the need for reforms to strengthen the independence and competency of judges in Ukraine. The public’s trust in the judiciary has been shaken, and it is crucial for the authorities to take swift and decisive action to restore it. Corruption is a major issue in Ukraine, and it is essential that those responsible for it are held accountable, regardless of their political connections or status. Only then can Ukraine truly move towards a more just and transparent society.
