The Accounting Chamber, after the arrest of Nikulai Badalau, who is an advisor to accountants and vice-president of the Audit Authority, expressed confidence that the competent authorities will resolve this case in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and relevant regulations. The institution clarifies that members of the Court and external state auditors are removed from their positions at the time of referral to the court, News.ro reports.

“The Court of Accounts of Romania took note of the communique of the National Anti-corruption Office regarding the measures ordered by the Prosecutor’s Office against Mr. Niculae Badalau, Accounts Advisor, Vice President of the Audit Authority. The Accounting Chamber of Romania reiterates its position in support of the court decision and expresses confidence that the competent authorities will resolve this case in accordance with the provisions of the Romanian Constitution and the relevant regulatory acts,” the Accounting Court sent on Sunday evening, in a press release.

The cited source specified that according to Article 54 of Law No. 1000-2018. 94/1992 on the organization and functioning of the Accounting Chamber, reissued with the following changes and additions, “from the date of appeal to the criminal court, members of the Accounting Chamber and external state auditors are legally removed from their positions. In the event of a final conviction, they are released by law, and in the event of an acquittal, the suspension ends.”

Former PSD senator Nicolae Badelau was detained on Sunday evening by DNA after being implicated in a bribery and abuse of influence case. DNA prosecutors allege that Bedeleu promised a total of 170,000 euros to the mayor of the commune to offer the contract to a company run by his relative and to continue making payments to that company under another contract, even for incompatible works. A representative of the company was detained along with Badelau.