From premier to witness: Leanca testifies on decisions behind Moldova’s bank collapse
Former Moldovan Prime Minister Iurie Leanca testified on Monday, January 5, at the Chisinau Court in the high-profile trial of Vladimir Plahotniuc.
The former Democratic Party leader faces charges of money laundering, fraud, and creating a criminal organization linked to the infamous "stolen billion" bank heist.
During the hearing, Plahotniuc personally interrogated the former Prime Minister. Leanca, currently serving as a consultant to the Rector of the University of Bucharest, defended his cabinet’s 2013-2014 decisions, citing warnings from the National Bank of Moldova and the political climate of the then-ruling coalition.
Defense claims no direct orders
Leanca emphasized that his appearance in court was a legal obligation rather than a choice. He denied receiving direct instructions from Plahotniuc, a stance echoed by Plahotniuc’s lawyer, Lucian Rogac. Rogac argued that the political dynamics of 2013 prevented such subordination.
The former Premier also referenced his status as a defendant in a separate case regarding the Chisinau International Airport concession. He noted that his testimony serves as a precedent for other former cabinet members expected to be summoned by the defense.
Details of the $40 million embezzlement
Prosecutors allege that Vladimir Plahotniuc benefited from over $39.28 million and €3.5 million stolen from Banca de Economii, Unibank, and Banca Sociala. These funds were reportedly used for personal luxuries, including an Embraer Legacy 650 aircraft and private charter flights.
The indictment further details expenditures on real estate, medical services, legal fees, and business investments. Plahotniuc, who was extradited from Greece on September 25 after six years as a fugitive, denies orchestrating the scheme.
Legal battles and upcoming testimonies
The trial continues tomorrow, January 6, with three additional defense witnesses scheduled to appear. Their identities remain undisclosed by the defense team. Plahotniuc currently faces between 8 and 15 years in prison if convicted.
The former tycoon is also under investigation in four other criminal cases. These include the "Metalferos" fraud and the "kuliok" (plastic bag) bribery case involving former President Igor Dodon. Plahotniuc remains in solitary confinement at Penitentiary No. 13 in the capital.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
