Greece’s parliament has voted to lift the legal immunity of 13 lawmakers as part of a widening investigation into the alleged misuse of European Union farm subsidies, according to Euro News. The decision, supported by a strong majority, allows prosecutors to examine whether the politicians played a role in a scheme that may have defrauded millions of euros from EU funds.
The investigation is being led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office, which has said it is looking into around 20 members of the ruling New Democracy party, including both current and former lawmakers. According to Greek authorities, the suspected network may have misused at least €23 million since around 2018.
Prosecutors believe some subsidy claims were made for land that was not owned by applicants, while others may have exaggerated livestock numbers. In some cases, payments were reportedly made to people with no real connection to farming. The alleged fraud is thought to have taken advantage of gaps in Greece’s land registry system, which made ownership unclear in parts of the country.
The lawmakers involved have denied any wrongdoing. Several have said that their actions; such as contacting officials on behalf of constituents, were part of their normal duties. Some even requested that their immunity be lifted, saying they want to clear their names.
The case has already caused political turmoil. Several senior officials, including ministers and deputy ministers, have stepped down in recent weeks, leading to a government reshuffle under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. While some government figures have criticised the investigation as politically motivated, Mitsotakis has promised that anyone found guilty will face justice and that stolen funds will be recovered.
With national elections expected next year, the scandal adds pressure to a government that currently leads in opinion polls but may struggle to secure a clear majority.
