Three CPT members questioned in Haitian bank corruption scandal 

PORT-AU-PRINCE — Three members of Haiti’s  Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) suspected in an ongoing corruption probe turned themselves in for questioning Tuesday. The move, made after Caricom issued a critical statement about the Banque Nationale de Crédit (BNC) matter, came as a surprise since investigators had not issued a public summons for the trio to appear.

“I don’t have to hide and I have nothing to hide,” said Smith Augustin after his hearing, adding that the ULCC swiftly wrapped up the matter.

Augustin and his CPT colleagues Emmanuel Vertilaire and Louis Gérald Gilles are in the spotlight after Raoul Pascal Pierre-Louis, the now former chairman of the BNC Board of Directors, accused them of extortion. Pierre-Louis said they allegedly demanded a bribe of nearly $760,000, so he could stay in his BNC post. 

Instead, Pierre-Louis said, he informed Prime Minister Garry Conille of the alleged crime on July 24. Since Haiti is under a provisional government, the anti-corruption body has been active in pursuing cases deemed a risk to the upcoming elections and Haiti’s chances at achieving stability. 

Meanwhile, Pierre-Louis was fired from his position, sparking calls from various political groups for new measures against the accused officials.

Just last week, the Caricom Group of Eminent Persons (GTE) issued a letter expressing concern.  

“The allegations of corruption have come at a worse time and require a rapid resolution in order to preserve the integrity of the institution and public confidence in the transition process,” the statement read. “In this regard, the investigation by the anti-corruption investigative agency will be of crucial importance.”

Tuesday, the three CPT members went to the ULCC premises. As of this writing, details have yet to be revealed about the content of the interviews. However, the CPT members have said, they hope their actions will help to calm down speculation, demonstrate their desire to move things forward and defend their integrity. 

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