Imbert: I reported attempt to bribe me to police

DAYS after saying the perception of some was that he was too stupid to be corrupt, Finance Minister Colm Imbert on Friday said he has reported attempts to bribe him to the police.

On Wednesday, during a discussion, hosted by the Andean Development Bank (CAF), on the issues of corruption and transparency in the region, Imbert said there was a perception that politicians were corrupt.

“In my own public life, over 29 years, one of the problems I face all the time when people approach me is I say, ‘Please go away, get lost. Don’t come by me with that nonsense at all.’ In fact, I remember many years ago I was accused of being too stupid to be corrupt, that I didn’t know how to take a bribe. Not a joke.”

Following the comment, Imbert was accused of not doing the right thing by reporting the matter to the police as bribing a public official is illegal.

During the debate on the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property (Amendment) Bill on Friday, Imbert silenced his critics saying he did report the matter.

“There is a written report to the Commissioner of Police about attempted bribery in respect to a contract in the airport. And I will also put on record that I am on affidavit in a matter dealing with the prosecution of international fraud.”

He added: “I don't fool around. The members on that side just like to talk. I am putting it on record that yes that matter was put on the record by me. I don't joke around.”