Greece’s parliament on Wednesday voted with an overwhelming majority to lift the immunity of 13 lawmakers, a move demanded by European and Greek prosecutors investigating the multi-million EU farm scandal that is rocking the conservative government.
Politicians belonging to the New Democracy ruling party have been increasingly ensnared in the scandal. Overall, the EU’s European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has announced probes into 20 New Democracy members, including active and former lawmakers.
Those under investigation are reportedly cited in legal wiretaps, allegedly discussing the cases of specific farmers and frequently attempting to intervene on their behalf. All those involved deny improper acts, and have called for their immunity to be lifted, insisting they will clear their name in court.
MPs deny wrongdoing
Many say their involvement in the cases of their constituents is part of their duties as lawmakers.
“The role of a member of parliament is to take an interest in the citizen and, of course, to intervene in matters that cannot be resolved under the existing legislation,” former agriculture minister Costas Tsiaras, who was among those to resign in April, told state TV ERT on Tuesday.
According to Greek authorities, the network defrauded at least 23 million euros ($27 million) since it started. Several ministers have resigned in the course of the investigation, including three this month, prompting a government reshuffle.
Related: Greece’s Mitsotakis Unveils €500M Relief Package Amid Scandals and Rising Cost-of-Living Pressure
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