Volodymyr Lytvyn - Gongadze Murder

Gongadze Murder

In 2000 Melnychenko released a secretly taped recording allegedly of a conversation between Kuchma and Lytvyn in which the two discussed getting rid of Gongadze. Lytvyn is alleged to have said that Kuchma should "let loose Kravchenko to use alternative methods" on Gongadze. Lytvyn denies the allegation, alleging that the tape is a fabrication. Independent experts who have analysed the tapes are divided as to their authenticity. Gongadze was found in a shallow grave in 2000. He had been beheaded. Kravchenko died in mysterious circumstances in 2005. Two bullets were found in his head. An official investigation decided he had committed suicide. An investigation concluded that he had ordered Gongadze's murder. Lytvyn stated "The investigation confirmed my innocence in this case, despite the fact that efforts have been, are being and will be taken to make me practically the main person accused ".