Ukraine’s president announces complete management renewal at state energy firms after $100 million embezzlement scheme prompts minister resignations
KYIV: President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a comprehensive overhaul of Ukraine’s state-owned energy companies following a major corruption scandal.
The announcement comes after anti-graft investigators revealed approximately $100 million had been embezzled from the energy sector.
This corruption has sparked public outrage in a country already suffering from devastating Russian attacks on its power infrastructure.
Zelensky forced two ministers to resign over the corruption scheme and sanctioned a former business partner identified as its mastermind.
“We are beginning the overhaul of key state-owned enterprises in the energy sector,” Zelensky stated on X.
He announced a full audit of financial activities alongside complete management renewal at the affected companies.
The president demanded a new supervisory board at scandal-hit nuclear company Energoatom “within a week.”
This board would enable a “complete overhaul of the company’s management,” according to Zelensky.
He also called for rapid appointment of new leadership at hydropower company Ukrhydroenergo.
Additional reforms were ordered for oil and gas giant Naftogaz and the main gas transmission system operator.
Zelensky emphasized his commitment to full cooperation with anti-corruption investigations.
“I have also instructed government officials to maintain constant and meaningful communication with law enforcement and anti-corruption bodies,” he said Saturday.
“The full transparency and integrity in the energy sector remain an absolute priority.”
The scandal has prompted Ukraine’s European allies to urge stronger anti-corruption measures from Zelensky’s government. – AFP
