Immunity Request Issued
Belgian authorities have requested the lifting of parliamentary immunity for former European Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos as part of an ongoing Qatargate investigation. The request targets scrutiny of figures linked to Fight Impunity, a non-governmental organization that became central to a corruption scandal involving the European Parliament.
Legal Procedure in Greece
The arrest warrant issued against Avramopoulos cannot be executed unless the Greek parliament first votes to lift his immunity. According to reports from Dnews Gr and other sources citing Greek media, Belgian prosecutors have reportedly transmitted the case file to Greece's judicial authorities. The document is expected to be forwarded to the Hellenic Parliament for a decision on whether legal proceedings should proceed.
Current Political Status
Dimitris Avramopoulos currently serves as a Member of Parliament (MP) in Greece representing the ruling centre-right New Democracy party. His status as an MP necessitates parliamentary intervention before any arrest warrant can be enforced, per standard procedures regarding immunity for sitting legislators.
Allegations Regarding Fight Impunity
The investigation focuses on Avramopoulos' past involvement with Fight Impunity. The organization was founded by former Italian Member of the European Parliament Antonio Panzeri, who later became a key figure in the Qatargate case. Belgian prosecutors are said to be examining payments made during Avramopoulos' association with the NGO.
Financial Allegations
According to Greek media reports cited by Dnews Gr, investigators allege that Avramopoulos received approximately €75,000 from Fight Impunity during his time associated with the organization. No formal charges have been announced publicly against Avramopoulos as of the latest reporting.
Background on Qatargate
The Qatargate investigation was launched in 2022 by Belgian authorities. The probe focuses on allegations that Qatar and other foreign actors sought to influence European Parliament decision-making through payments and gifts routed through individuals linked to Panzeri.
Related Arrests
The scandal has led to a series of arrests, including that of former European Parliament Vice President Eva Kaili. The investigation continues to scrutinize figures connected to Fight Impunity and the broader network alleged in the corruption case.
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