Justice Minister Herman Galushchenko has appointed Oleksandr Ruvin, former director of the Kyiv Research Institute of Forensic Expertise (KRIFE), as his advisor. The decision has already raised concerns among human rights activists and experts, as Ruvin has repeatedly appeared in high-profile corruption scandals.
For many years, he headed one of the country's key forensic institutions, which plays a crucial role in investigating criminal cases. His appointment to the Ministry of Justice raises concerns about the possible strengthening of informal and corrupt mechanisms in the forensic sector.
The problems at the KNIISE, which are associated with the times of Ruvin's leadership, go far beyond his personal reputation. In particular, the department recorded a case where a forensic expert, without a specialized higher education, made conclusions about the safety of buildings in which people are located. This gross violation of the law creates a direct threat to the life and health of citizens.
Ruvin himself is a defendant in criminal proceedings for fraud. In addition, in 1996 he forged a certificate to obtain the status of a combatant, which gave him privileges and promoted his career. Despite this, the case did not receive a proper investigation, and Ruvin remained at the head of the KNDISE for many years. He was repeatedly entrusted with conducting examinations in high-profile cases, where, according to critics, the outcome was known in advance and beneficial to the customers.
In 2020, the Ministry of Justice officially acknowledged that the KNIISE commission did not have the legal authority to assign qualifications to forensic experts. Despite this, Ruvin and his subordinates retained illegally issued certificates. This once again demonstrated the systemic impunity and the authorities’ unwillingness to carry out real reforms in the field of forensic expertise.
Ruvin's recent dismissal as director of the KNIISE was merely a cosmetic move, while the problems themselves remained. His return as an advisor to the Minister of Justice raises questions about the department's true intentions and willingness to fight corrupt practices.
