Romanian anti-corruption prosecutors have formally indicted Covasna County Prefect István Ráduly for abuse of office tied to the renovation of the government office building in Sângeorgiu de Mureș, according to the National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA) and local media reports published by Háromszék. The case, registered at the Covasna Tribunal on July 31, also names a procurement counselor, a private company, and a company representative as defendants, all of whom are defending themselves at liberty.
Investigation Details and Procurement Irregularities
According to the DNA, István Ráduly and his procurement counselor directly contracted the company Electroconstructia ELCO Kft. between September and December 2021 to overhaul the prefectural headquarters’ electrical grid. Prosecutors assert that the officials granted the firm an unlawful advantage by bypassing stricter statutory procedures. Investigators state that the project involved more than simple repairs, meaning the county should have commissioned a formal expert report, a new technical plan, and comprehensive economic documentation. Furthermore, the DNA alleges the company dictated the work value and contract terms while ignoring specifications in the assignment notebook.
Financial Damage and Disputed Costs
The Bucharest-based media outlet G4Media.ro reported that prosecutors from the DNA’s Brașov branch previously raided both the prefectural office and Ráduly’s private residence in 2024 as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Did you know?
István Ráduly took office as the prefect of Covasna County in March 2021, just months before the disputed direct contracting period took place.
Legal Status of the Accused Parties
The indictment targets multiple individuals and corporate entities under Romanian criminal law. István Ráduly faces a single count of abuse of office. A procurement counselor employed by the prefect’s office faces an identical abuse of office charge. In addition, Electroconstructia ELCO Kft. and its corporate representative are formally accused of complicity in abuse of office. Court documents confirm that all named defendants retain the right to defend themselves while at liberty while the case proceeds through the Covasna Tribunal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is István Ráduly?
István Ráduly serves as the government-appointed prefect of Covasna County, a position he assumed in March 2021.
What are the specific charges against the prefect?
According to the DNA, Ráduly faces charges of abuse of office relating to the direct contracting of a company for electrical renovation work at the prefectural headquarters.
How much financial damage is alleged in the indictment?
Prosecutors state that the irregularities caused 356,025 lei in damage, which includes 77,142 lei billed for unused materials.
Are any other individuals implicated in the case?
Yes. The DNA has also indicted a procurement counselor from the prefect’s office, along with Electroconstructia ELCO Kft. and its corporate representative.
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