2012-05-24 13:14

Lithuanian Parliament cancels immunity of MP Vitas Matuzas suspected of fraud

Lithuania's parliament satisfied Prosecutor General Darius Valys' request and cancelled immunity of conservative MP Vitas Matuzas who is a suspect in a fraud case.
Vitas Matuzas
Vitas Matuzas / Juliaus Kalinsko / 15min nuotr.

On Thursday, 79 lawmakers voted in favor of revoking Matuzas' immunity, one was against, and four abstained. At least 71 votes are needed to cancel an MP's immunity.

Matuzas is suspected of fraud, misuse of his official position, and document forgery. Matuzas denies all accusations and says the case is politically-motivated.

Prosecutors say that despite being aware that an MP cannot be engaged in any profit-seeking business activity, Matuzas helped several companies win public tenders.

Prosecutors say 22 people have been charged in this case, and, according to Valys, the majority of suspects have already pleaded guilty.

Report mistake
Successfully sent
Thank you