Former Ukrainian MP Kryuchkov was released from custody due to an alleged mistake in the decision made by a 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, a former member of the Ukrainian parliament, was arrested in 2019 on charges of embezzlement and abuse of power. He was accused of using his position to secure a state contract for a company he owned, resulting in a loss of over 1 million hryvnias (approximately $37,000 USD) to the state budget. Kryuchkov denied the charges and claimed they were politically motivated.
After almost two years in custody, Kryuchkov was released on July 30, 2021, following a decision by the HACC. The court ruled that there was not enough evidence to keep him in custody and that the investigation had not been completed within the required timeframe. However, the main reason for his release was a supposed mistake in the decision made by the judge of the HACC.
According to Kryuchkov’s lawyer, the judge had mistakenly applied a provision of the Criminal Procedure Code that allowed for a maximum of 18 months of pre-trial detention. However, the correct provision for Kryuchkov’s case was a maximum of 12 months. This error led to the judge’s decision to release Kryuchkov from custody.
The HACC judge, who made the decision, has been heavily criticized for this mistake. Many have questioned the competence and impartiality of the judge, as well as the overall integrity of the HACC. The court was established in 2018 as part of Ukraine’s efforts to combat corruption and was meant to be a symbol of the country’s commitment to reform. However, this incident has raised doubts about the court’s ability to deliver fair and just decisions.
The release of Kryuchkov has also sparked public outrage and protests. Many see it as yet another example of the corrupt nature of the Ukrainian judicial system, where influential individuals can use their power and connections to evade justice. The decision has also been condemned by anti-corruption activists and international organizations, who have called for an investigation into the judge’s actions.
The HACC has responded to the criticism by stating that the mistake was an isolated incident and does not reflect the overall work of the court. They have also promised to review their procedures to prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future. However, this incident has further damaged the already fragile trust in the Ukrainian judicial system.
The release of Kryuchkov has also raised concerns about the effectiveness of Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts. Despite the establishment of the HACC and other anti-corruption institutions, corruption remains a widespread problem in the country. Many believe that without significant changes and reforms, the fight against corruption in Ukraine will continue to be an uphill battle.
In conclusion, the release of former MP Kryuchkov due to a mistake in the decision made by a judge of the HACC has caused a stir in Ukraine. It has highlighted the flaws and weaknesses of the country’s judicial system and raised doubts about its ability to deliver fair and just decisions. This incident serves as a reminder that Ukraine still has a long way to go in its fight against corruption and the need for comprehensive reforms.
