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Politics
24 February 2025

Ulyukaev Seeks Expungement Of Criminal Record

Former minister's court hearing highlights the struggle of reintegrated officials.

Former Russian Minister of Economic Development, Alexey Ulyukaev, is seeking to have his criminal record expunged, presenting his case before the Nikulinsky Court of Moscow on March 10, 2025. Ulyukaev, who was convicted of bribery and sentenced to eight years in prison, aims to lift the legal barriers restricting his employment opportunities following his early release under parole.

Ulyukaev's 2017 conviction stemmed from accusations of soliciting a $2 million bribe from Igor Sechin, the head of the state-owned oil company Rosneft. This significant case captivated public attention, marking Ulyukaev as the first sitting minister prosecuted for corruption in modern Russia. His request to clear his criminal record is based on provisions within Russian law, which allow individuals to petition for expungement after demonstrating good conduct and rectifying any damages caused by their actions.

Denis Shirokov, a legal expert, explained the conditions under which Ulyukaev’s petition can succeed. “If the convicted person has not committed unlawful actions and has compensated for the harm, they have the right to submit such a request. The court can lift the conviction earlier if it deems it possible,” Shirokov reported.

Despite the statutory framework supporting Ulyukaev’s plea, the reality of employment prospects for those with prior convictions remains bleak. Shirokov noted the dichotomy between legal provisions and actual hiring practices. He stated, “The removal of the conviction means all consequences cease. A person is legally considered unconvicted and can work anywhere without obstacles,” yet continues to be skeptical about Ulyukaev’s chances of resuming a governmental role.

Ulyukaev spent nearly five and half years behind bars, having been released from strict regime correctional facility No. 1 on May 12, 2022. Reflecting on his transition from minister to inmate, Ulyukaev expressed, “I enjoy being just ‘a person among people’ now.” He highlighted how his current life affords him newfound connections and perspectives. This sentiment illuminates the psychological challenges faced by individuals moving from powerful positions to incarceration.

With the hearing fast approaching, the outcome of Ulyukaev’s petition remains uncertain. If successful, it could potentially restore his rights to work within government and other professional sectors traditionally barred to those with criminal records, including law and education. Yet, observers note the impact of public perception, which often lingers long past the legal clearance of any records.

After his conditional release, Ulyukaev, whose sentencing had included both prison time and a hefty monetary fine of 130 million rubles, has attempted to rehabilitate his image and reintegrate back to society. Notably, he had previously disputed the legitimacy of his prosecution, claiming it to be orchestrated against him—a notion he reiterated when he described the case against him as fabricated.

The response from the public and media continues to focus on the broader implications of Ulyukaev’s situation for Russia's fight against corruption and the struggles of former officials trying to reintegrate after such high-profile legal troubles.

Regardless of the verdict on March 10, Ulyukaev’s case will likely remain emblematic of the tensions within Russian politics, particularly concerning the ability of convicted officials to reclaim their former status and privileges within the government. The discussion surrounding his request not only highlights personal ramifications but also serves as a barometer for public sentiment toward rehabilitation efforts for those who have faced serious legal ramifications.

This case will certainly be observed closely, both for its direct outcomes and its adaptability within the wider conversation about political accountability and the challenges of returning to positions of authority after conviction. Ulyukaev’s path forward and the court’s decision may reflect changing attitudes toward redemption and trust among Russian officials.