BUDAPEST, Jan 17 (Reuters) - The head of a Hungarian anti-corruption office, responsible for combating fraud in the management of European Union funds, refuted allegations of misappropriation and abuse of power on Friday following a search of his office by authorities the day before.
The Integrity Authority was established in late 2022 under pressure from the EU in a country that has faced frequent disputes with the bloc concerning rule-of-law matters. Despite its independence from Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government, the authority expressed a need for increased authority.
The chief prosecutor's office announced late on Thursday that Ferenc Biro, the head of the authority, stands accused of misappropriating nearly 14 million forints ($35,000) by leasing two company cars for personal use, one of which was allegedly driven by his wife in violation of regulations. Additionally, Biro is alleged to have improperly limited the powers of his deputies.
Following searches at various locations, including the Integrity Authority's offices and the seizure of evidence, "the Prosecutor General's Office interrogated the chairman of the Integrity Authority as a suspect," according to the statement.
Biro, a former PricewaterhouseCoopers partner with two decades of experience in forensic accounting and compliance, denied the allegations in a statement to Reuters on Friday, stating, "The accusations are baseless, and I have filed a complaint against them. I have not committed any crimes."
He added, "I have been personally targeted in an attempt to undermine the Integrity Authority. Our organization operates transparently, always adhering to the highest ethical and legal standards."
Last year, the Integrity Authority disclosed its request for expanded powers such as the ability to prosecute, conduct raids, and impose sanctions. In a document submitted to the Justice Ministry and the European Commission, the authority raised concerns about its current limitations in uncovering misconduct in the Eastern European country.
($1 = 401.55 forints)