There is no room for corruption during the crisis, the US Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina told N1, responding to an enquiry about the controversial purchase of medical equipment that is investigated by Sarajevo prosecutors.
“We cannot comment on specific ongoing investigations. However, as we were always saying, we are very concerned about all reports on corrupt activities during the pandemic. If such practice in the past meant a loss of public funds, corruption could directly lead to the loss of people's lives today. There is no room for corruption during a crisis that we all are facing together,” the embassy said.
The statement comes days after media reports on alleged irregularities in the import of 100 ventilators from China that involved a local fruit and vegetable processing company, which sparked reactions in Bosnia's public and led the Sarajevo Canton Prosecutor's Office to look into the case.
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“The citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina know very well how deeply rooted corruption is in the country. This is a chance to process those who abuse this situation for gaining illegal benefit and prove the citizens there is hope in the fight against corruption. We still support the prosecutors who stand ready to cope with corruption, including the corruption in public procurement process during Covid-19 pandemic regardless of numerous obstacles,” said the embassy.
Earlier this month, the US Embassy joined several other embassies and international organisations in Bosnia and urged the local authorities to make the prevention of corruption and an integral part of the fight against Covid-19.
