Illegal Property to be Confiscated: Bill Passed in First Reading

The National Assembly voted on the draft law on the "Confiscation of Property of Illegal Origin." The package of bills received 92 votes in favor, 2 against, and 18 abstentions, along with votes from 8 members who were on official trips.

The proposed legal mechanism allows for the confiscation of property acquired in substantial amounts that cannot be justified by legal income sources as stipulated by the draft. Regarding such property, there is a presumption of illegal origin, which can be refuted by the respondent by presenting substantiated evidence of the property acquisition.

The bill outlines new procedural rules for the activities of the competent authority and civil proceedings, enabling the examination of assets and confiscating wealth deemed unjustified under the law for the benefit of the state. The competent authority will operate within the framework of the Prosecutor General's office. The functions performed will manifest as claims for the protection of state interests. Certain indicators will serve as the basis for the examination.