Newsweek Interview - 06.18.2000

 

NEWSWEEK

A Press Lord’s Side of the Story
‘The Kremlin,’ warns Gusinsky, ‘would like total control’

June 18 — Vladimir Gusinsky, the head of the Media-Most holding company, talked with NEWSWEEK contributor Yevgenia Albats after he was released from Butyrka prison. Excerpts:

Why were you arrested?
       I was called up by the office of the prosecutor general to provide explanations about materials they obtained during the search [May 11] of the Media-Most offices. [The investigator and I] talked for an hour or so. And then he said: “My boss would like to talk to you.” I said, “Sure.” He said, “Some other people too are expecting you [in the office next door].” I went with him without any hesitation even though I was a little surprised. In the next room was investigator Nikolaev who handled the case of the Russian Video company [the case on which now Gusinsky is accused of embezzling $10 million]. He said: “Sit down. We have something to show you.” Immediately four operatives entered the office. They handed me a warrant of arrest. I was stunned. Just several months ago, on Nov. 2, the same investigator, Nikolaev, questioned me about the same case. He said, “I do not have any claims against you.” So now I yelled at him: “Did you lie then? Or do you lie now?” Then I asked: “May I call my lawyers?” “No.” “My family?” “Give us a number,” they said, “we will call for you.” I said: “No, I am not going to give you the numbers of my family.”
       Then they called the office [Media-Most] and sent a fax informing my lawyers. But it was after 6 p.m., and by the time I got to Butyrka [prison] it was too late for the lawyers to come: all official institutions, prison included, are closed by 8 p.m.
       
       How were you treated in prison?
       Fine. Both prison guards and inmates showed respect. The woman who took my fingerprints suggested that I wash my hands right afterward. It was a clear sign of respect. The next day I was in a room with three men. One of them was covered with tattoos from upside down, and had ugly golden teeth. I did not feel exactly comfortable. But he said, “Vladimir Alexandrovich, we are for you, we are concerned for you, you hold out.” You know, these people, both prison guards and inmates, have seen so many people who were put in prison just for doing nothing, that they immediately grasped that I was there because the authorities just happen to dislike me.
       
       How were the conditions in prison?
       Bad. But I should not complain. Prison officials did their best. But the situation there is catastrophic. They do not have money to feed inmates, they do not have simple medicine. I decided while still sitting in my cell that I will do some sort of a charity fund for Butyrka.
       
       Do you think President Putin knew about your upcoming arrest?
       I believe he did.
       
       What helped you to get out?
       First of all the support of the journalists from [all over the world]. Second, the support of the Russian businessmen, as well as those in the other countries. Third, the strong stand that American administration took—I did not expect that to happen. Fourth, the support of the world Jewish community. I am grateful to all the people who came to my support.
       
       Do you expect more arrests of oligarchs?
       I have few doubts that if someone’s business is not favored by the president’s close entourage, this business will be in danger—if not taken away from him. The Kremlin would like to establish total control over the country, and will not tolerate any opposition voices. I have reliable information that the Kremlin is considering further arrests. Lukoil’s Vagit Alekperov and some executives from Yukos [another oil company] are being considered. In any case, it is clear that either we stop them [those forces who would like to impose a strong hand over the society], or all of us will end up in [Butyrka].