Former EU Vice President Eva Kaili has made a partial confession to the Brussels investigating judge Michel Claise in the EU corruption scandal. This is reported by the newspapers “La Repubblica” from Italy and “Le Soir” from Belgium.
Kaili said, “It’s true. I knew about Mr. Panzeri’s activities.” She also allegedly admitted knowing about the suitcases full of cash at her home Pier-Antonio Panzeri is the director general of Fight Impunity, an NGO targeted by investigators in the wake of the scandal.
Kaili warned several MPs
But Kaili admits only what researchers already know. The Greek woman warned her father and ordered him to take the money. Further warnings from Kailis went to two MEPs.
Corruption scandal shakes up Brussels
Kaili was arrested in Brussels for allegations in the Qatar affair, as was her partner.
The Greek and her partner are accused of “membership of a criminal organization, money laundering and corruption”. They would have been paid by the Gulf state of Qatar to represent their interests in the European Parliament. Qatar has denied the allegations. It is the biggest corruption scandal to date in the anything but scandal-free history of the 705-member European Parliament.
According to Belgian judicial circles, their shared apartment was searched for 150,000 euros and another 750,000 euros for Kaili’s father. Kaili remains in custody in Belgium. (nad/AFP)