Penner Met Real Kim But Hesitant to Discuss ‘Friends’

Chairman Salazar tag-teamed out to Senator Eamon Courtenay, who turned to the question of how Penner and Kim met in the first place. Here the former Minister was a little more forthcoming, but not very. He was asked where he was introduced to Kim’s “friends” and was quickly shut down by Penner, who did not buy the panel’s assertions that to answer that question would lead to a criminal investigation.

Eamon Courtenay, P.U.P. Senator

“Mr. Penner, I understand you to have said just now that you knew a gentleman by the name of Kim Won Hong?”

Elvin Penner

Elvin Penner, Former Minister of State, Immigration and Nationality

“No; his name is Won Hong Kim…”

Eamon Courtenay

“But you knew him…”

Elvin Penner

“…better known to myself and friends of his as ‘Mr. Kim.’”

Eamon Courtenay

“How and when did you meet Mr. Kim?”

Elvin Penner

“Again, that’s a question that I will not answer.”

Eamon Courtenay

“Mr. Penner, can you tell the Committee why you are not answering that question?”

Elvin Penner

“I made my statement and my reasons why in my opening statement, and like I said, if that is not sufficient for you to excuse to not answer that question, then the Senate has the full right to do and take whatever actions you all feel is necessary to take.”

Eamon Courtenay

“But you are confirming to this Committee that this gentleman known as Mr. Kim was known to you?”

Elvin Penner

“Yes.”

Eamon Courtenay

“You said “and his friends;” who else are you referring to?”

Elvin Penner

“I am not going to answer that question in regard to Mr. Kim.”

Eamon Courtenay

“Why are you not answering?”

Elvin Penner

“Refer to my opening statement.”