Vladimir Plahotniuc has not yet appeared at court hearings in the “bank fraud” case, as he is preparing to make his first statements before the court, his lawyer said.
“Mr. Plahotniuc has the right, not the obligation, to make statements before the judicial debate stage, and he intends to exercise this right,” attorney Lucian Rogac explained.
The defense also reported that several witnesses did not appear: some refused to testify, citing their legal right to remain silent because they are involved in other criminal cases, while others could not attend for health reasons. Rogac rejected claims that the defense is delaying the process, stressing that ensuring witnesses’ presence is challenging for all parties.
Prosecutor Alexandru Cernei said up to 10 defense witnesses remain to be heard. Once their testimonies are complete, the trial will move to the next phase with oral arguments and judicial debates from both the prosecution and the defense.