The Integrity Council has suspended Rodica Antoci as head of the National Integrity Authority (ANI), pending the outcome of a criminal investigation.

Antoci reacted to the news by branding the suspension “unlawful” and saying she was determined to prove her innocence in domestic courts as well as international ones, if need be.

“In all likelihood this decision regarding my temporary suspension from office will be accepted, even if these moves are contrary to law, running afoul of the special requirements of the Law on National Integrity Authority, facts that I will prove in court and before the criminal investigation bodies. From now on, many examinations and processes will follow which will keep me away from the institution”, Rodica Antoci told a press briefing.

The suspension occurs during a period when the ANI is due to receive declarations of assets and interests from officials and to submit its annual report to Parliament. According to Antoci, her suspension during this time is an indication that her silencing is being sought.

Antoci addressed integrity inspectors: “Dear inspectors, please continue to do your jobs honestly. Don’t let yourselves get taken aback by all these things taking place within the ANI”.

Anoci together with a colleague are being investigated on abuse of authority charges.