ARCHIVE – Debate in the Greek parliament. Photo: Michael Varaklas/AP/dpa
Keystone
The parliament in Athens has lifted the immunity of 13 MPs from the ruling conservative party Nea Dimokratia (ND). The European Public Prosecutor’s Office had previously submitted a corresponding request, as announced by the parliamentary presidium.
Serious accusations against MPs
The persons concerned are accused of having favored their electorate and obtaining illegal subsidies. The accusations range from embezzlement and computer fraud to false certification with the aim of obtaining EU agricultural subsidies. In the course of the affair, the Ministers for Civil Protection and Agriculture as well as a State Secretary in the Ministry of Health have already resigned.
Investigations could take months
It is still unclear whether and against whom charges will actually be brought following the lifting of immunity. It is expected that the proceedings will drag on for several months before final decisions on possible charges are made. The conservative Nea Dimokratia party has governed Greece since 2019 and has a clear majority of 156 MPs in the 300-seat parliament.