In a dramatic escalation of the Qatargate corruption scandal, European Parliament Vice President Eva Kaili has been stripped of her legal immunity, paving the way for potential criminal charges against the prominent Greek politician.
The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly to remove Kaili's protection following her arrest in December as part of a major Belgian investigation into alleged corruption involving Gulf states. The decision marks a significant turning point in one of the European Union's biggest corruption scandals in recent history.
Mounting Evidence Forces Parliament's Hand
Belgian authorities presented compelling evidence to parliament officials, including "a significant amount of cash" discovered during raids on multiple properties. Investigators reportedly found approximately €150,000 at the home of Kaili's partner and fellow MEP Francesco Giorgi, with additional substantial sums located in a Brussels apartment and suitcase.
The evidence package presented to parliament was described as sufficiently substantial to justify removing the legal immunity that typically protects sitting MEPs from prosecution.
Family Connections Under Scrutiny
Adding to the complexity of the case, Kaili's father was allegedly apprehended leaving a Brussels hotel with a large quantity of cash shortly after the initial raids began. This development suggests the investigation network extends beyond the parliament itself to include family members of those implicated.
Kaili maintains her innocence despite the mounting evidence against her. Her lawyer, Michalis Dimitrakopoulos, stated she "has nothing to do with Qatar's corruption" and continues to deny any wrongdoing.
Broader Implications for EU Governance
The scandal has sent shockwaves through Brussels political circles, raising serious questions about the integrity of EU decision-making processes and the vulnerability of the institution to foreign influence.
As the investigation continues to unfold, attention now turns to whether additional high-profile figures will face similar consequences and what lasting reforms might emerge from what many are calling the EU's most significant corruption crisis in decades.
