KNAB launches probe into deputy Rasima’s housing compensation
Latvia’s Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau has launched an internal review into Saeima deputy Leila Rasima’s rental allowance after public reports suggested possible abuse. The bureau has also called for tighter controls to prevent dishonest use of the compensation system.
The Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has launched an internal review on its own initiative into Saeima deputy Leila Rasima (P) over possibly dishonest conduct related to her housing rental compensation. According to LETA, the bureau is currently assessing whether the compensation was properly requested and paid.
KNAB says that over recent years it has repeatedly drawn the Saeima’s attention to shortcomings in the rules governing deputies’ transport and housing rental compensation. The bureau sees a risk that the existing framework could be used to improperly gain the right to compensation by deliberately declaring a residence more than 39 kilometres from Riga, including in cases where a person actually owns a dwelling in Riga or within 39 kilometres of it.
In KNAB’s previous practice, there have been cases where lawmakers received compensation unlawfully. Two deputies were criminally prosecuted for defrauding the compensation system for transport and accommodation, and in both cases final convictions were handed down.
The bureau suggests the risk could be reduced through stricter control of the payment process and additional document requirements. For instance, deputies could be obliged to submit a declaration confirming they have no family ties with the landlord and do not own a dwelling in Riga or within 39 kilometres of the capital.
The discussion flared up after public reports that Rasima receives 610 euros per month in rent compensation, although her official declaration shows an apartment she owns in Riga. On social media, the deputy said her mother had bought the apartment in Rasima’s name so it would stay with her in the future. Rasima said she has never lived there and receives no income from it.
Deputies are entitled to a combined housing rental and transport allowance, and the Saeima covers only actual expenses within the granted limit. In August, 58 of the 100 lawmakers had not received any compensation. The allowable amounts are calculated by applying coefficients from the Saeima rules of procedure to the average wage two years earlier.
Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs (AS) said there are several examples in which compensation may be manipulated and claimed without justification, but that it would always be so.
