UNMIK/PR/723
PRISTINA--Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Andy Bearpark, who heads Pillar IV, Reconstruction and Economic Development, gave the following statement at a press briefing at 10:30 a.m. today in UNMIK’s Press Centre:
“Corruption at any level in any society must eradicated.
The reason for calling today’s press conference is that I have found evidence of a POSSIBLE case of corruption in the KEK concerning the possible fraud of approximately 4.5 million euros of international aid money involved in the import of electricity.
I have known for many months that there have been rumours of corruption in the KEK. Rumours alone are not enough. As I have said repeatedly, I needed evidence.
I now have evidence. As soon as I was made aware of it last week I contacted the appropriate authorities of the European Anti Fraud Office in Brussels.
I am sure you will understand that as the investigation is now in progress, I cannot give you any more details, particularly about any individuals who might be involved.
It is my firm belief that if we are to rebuild a functioning economy in Kosovo and if we are to have the sustainable economy that we so passionately want, corruption cannot be tolerated.
Where we find evidence such as this we are ready to act swiftly to bring those responsible before the appropriate authorities.”
