All posts tagged: Laura Codruta Kovesi

Top EU prosecutor complains to Brussels about Greece amid farm fraud probe – POLITICO

Top EU prosecutor complains to Brussels about Greece amid farm fraud probe – POLITICO

Published by Sam Flores

In a letter to the European Commission on Friday, Kövesi said that the “hasty” move by the government in Athens “has a negative effect on the EPPO’s ability to effectively investigate and prosecute offences under its competence in Greece.” She also has sent a formal complaint regarding the amendment to Greek Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis. In her letter to the Commission, Kövesi said the Greek Supreme Judicial Council recently refused to renew the mandate of three European Delegated Prosecutors for five years, as requested by EPPO, which “has a negative effect on the EPPO’s independence in Greece.” The prosecutors are currently investigating the farm fraud scandal and have sent case files to the Greek parliament requesting the lifting of the immunity of several lawmakers accused of involvement. More cases are expected in the future. Earlier this month, the Judicial Council renewed the terms of the delegated prosecutors for just two years. Kövesi said these developments “cast serious doubts as to the Greek authorities’ compliance with their obligation of sincere cooperation” with the EPPO. A Commission …

Greece moves to sideline EU prosecutor from investigating parliamentarians – POLITICO

Greece moves to sideline EU prosecutor from investigating parliamentarians – POLITICO

Published by Sam Flores

In an amendment tabled to parliament late on Monday, the government stipulates that in cases involving criminal acts by members of parliament, the investigation must be conducted by a special investigating judge, effectively excluding European prosecutors. “In cases of criminal acts committed by members of Parliament, for the prosecution of which the relevant authorization of the Parliament has been granted […] in the case of felonies, the preliminary investigation must be conducted, notwithstanding any other general or specific provision, by a special investigating judge,” the provision reads. The legislative amendment will go to a parliamentary vote late on Tuesday.  EPPO reacted with alarm to Greece’s move and the speed with which the legislation was being pushed through. It also casts doubt on Athens’ sincerity about ensuring the legal use of EU funds in Greece.  European Prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi sent a formal complaint regarding Monday’s amendment to the Greek Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis, according to officials following the matter. In a statement, the EPPO said: “The potential implications of the changes are wide ranging and their rushed …