Kathmandu— Former Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno, 73, has been sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of bribery related to the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant. The court also permanently disqualified him from holding any future public office. An investigation launched in March 2023 revealed an alleged corruption network involving Moreno, his family, and business partners connected to the plant’s construction between 2009 and 2018. The ruling was delivered on Friday by Judge Manuel Cabrera.

Bribery Charges And Investigation

The attorney general’s office began investigating in March 2023, alleging a corruption network linking Moreno, his family members, and both local and Chinese business partners to the construction of the Coca Codo Sinclair plant. The facility, which became operational in 2016, has reportedly experienced technical issues since its completion. Judge Manuel Cabrera stated that Moreno’s actions were consistent with the bribery charges brought forth by the prosecution.

Financial Details And Key Players

Prosecutors allege Chinese state-owned firm Sinohydro paid approximately $76.1 million in bribes between 2009 and 2018 through fraudulent consulting contracts. The funds were reportedly moved through offshore accounts and shell companies located in tax havens before reaching Moreno’s family and associates. During his time as vice president, from 2007 to 2013, Moreno and his close relatives allegedly received over $1 million. In addition to Moreno, his wife and daughter, along with two brothers and their wives, were convicted and sentenced to two and a half years in prison. Cai Runguo, China’s former ambassador to Quito, also received a five-year sentence.

Moreno's Defense

Moreno consistently denied the allegations throughout the trial, maintaining his innocence and claiming he had no involvement in signing or overseeing the plant’s contracts. Addressing the court during the hearing, Moreno stated, “You’re looking in the wrong place. Look at those who signed the contracts, at those who had the habit of demanding kickbacks.” He returned to Ecuador from Paraguay to face trial.

Moreno's conviction marks a significant development in Ecuador's ongoing efforts to address corruption within its government and infrastructure projects.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.