Today, December 3, the court accepted only 27 of the 160 people that Vladimir Plahotniuc’s lawyers listed as witnesses in the “Bank Fraud” case. Prosecutor Alexandru Cernei, who handles the case, confirmed this information.
He said the court rejected most of the individuals proposed by the defense because the lawyers failed to present sufficient arguments proving why their testimony was necessary and relevant. Cernei also pointed out that many people on the list are involved in other criminal cases related to the bank fraud and hold the status of suspects or defendants.
“These individuals have the right to refuse to testify in order not to incriminate themselves, and if they agree to testify, their objectivity remains questionable,” the prosecutor explained. He also emphasized that the court will assess any statements they eventually make together with all other evidence in the case.
Cernei said that four prosecution witnesses could not testify because they are abroad.
“We asked the court to reserve our right to question the individuals who could not be heard at the end of the judicial examination. We are now waiting for the court to review the defense’s evidence, after which we will return to these witnesses.”
Asked about the possible hearing of Vladimir Plahotniuc, the prosecutor explained that the defendant may choose to testify or remain silent at any stage of the trial, with the court’s approval.
“It is the defendant’s right to give or refuse any statements. We have not reached the stage of hearing the defendant yet, but he may ask to be heard at any moment during the judicial examination.”
Cernei also clarified why the witness list does not include other former finance ministers besides former minister Anatol Arapu. He said the court did not accept them because the defense failed to justify the need for their testimony.
Vladimir Plahotniuc appeared in court again today but did not make any statements to the press.