Investment Ministry Awards €30 Million Contract to Businessman Facing Tax Fraud Ruling

Slovakia's Investment Ministry has awarded a €30 million contract to run the state company Mirri Developments to businessman Bučko, despite his previous company facing an administrative court ruling that characterized his family's land transactions as tax fraud. The administrative court determined that Bučko's knowledge of participation in tax fraud was "unquestionable" when evaluating the property deals involving his family members. The contract award comes from Investment Minister Richard Raši's ministry, raising questions about the government's vetting procedures for major state contracts. The case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency in public procurement processes, particularly when contractors have faced adverse court findings regarding their business practices.