PPA Chief Rejects Allegations That He Obtained Subsidy for Farm and Violated Law

Bratislava, 16 March (TASR) - Head of the Agricultural Payment Agency (PPA) Marek Cepko has rejected claims made by the Let's Stop Corruption Foundation that, prior to assuming his current post, he obtained a subsidy for a family farm despite violations of the Public Procurement Act, TASR learnt on Monday. Cepko further stated that while the Economy Ministry did approve a grant of nearly €113,000 for innovative technologies in 2021, he later withdrew from the contract and received no funds. "In 2021, I had a project approved by the Economy Ministry. I was a farmer, but in 2023 I agreed with the Economy Ministry to withdraw from the contract for this project," said Cepko, explaining that communication with the ministry was extremely difficult at the time, so he didn't carry out the project. According to him, he therefore didn't conduct any public procurement, nor did he violate any regulations, and he received no money. He stated that the Economy Ministry subsequently confirmed this for him in writing. Cepko stated that he has no issues at the payment agency. "If I happen to have any, you can harshly criticise me; I'll be the first to take responsibility, but I won't let my name be tarnished," he stressed. For this reason, he's demanding a public apology from the aforementioned foundation and all media outlets, and he'll also seek non-pecuniary damages worth €30,000. "And if I'm successful, I'll donate this money to charity," he added. am/df