Varazdin Mayor Denies Influence Peddling Allegations Amidst Smear Campaign

Strategic Insights -

Varazdin Mayor Neven Bosilj is facing allegations of influence peddling after being charged by the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organised Crime (USKOK). Bosilj maintained his innocence, stating that the allegations were part of a politically motivated smear campaign. He expressed confidence that the indictment would be dismissed in December, citing a lack of evidence to support the charges.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bosilj denied arranging the renovation of a Varazdin National Theatre flat in exchange for a permit for businessman Robert Gotic's underground garage project.
  • The mayor claimed that the information provided by USKOK was false and inaccurate, raising questions about the office's credibility.
  • The renovation was allegedly done in the public interest, as it concerned a city-owned property.
  • Bosilj pointed out that no permit was issued and that the underground garage does not exist.
  • The mayor expects the indictment to be dismissed on 8 December due to a lack of evidence and proof that he knowingly used influence or received a bribe.
  • Bosilj's defense is based on Supreme Court rulings that require proof of intentional influence peddling and that a co-defendant's confession may not be enough for a conviction without other evidence.

Statistics:

  • The renovation of the Varazdin National Theatre flat was worth nearly [euro]23,000.
  • The garage project that triggered the allegations did not receive a permit from Bosilj.
  • The Zagreb County Court will hold a session on 8 December to address the indictment against Bosilj.
  • According to Supreme Court rulings, a conviction requires proof that the accused knowingly used real or alleged influence and that a bribe-giver's belief alone is insufficient.
  • A co-defendant's confession is not enough for a conviction if no other evidence exists.

Sources:

  • Hina - Zagreb, 21 Oct
  • BS, Zagreb County Court - Zagreb, 8 Dec