Allegations of corruption levied against prior EU development bank leader, Hoyer.
Ex-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), Werner Hoyer, is under investigation for corruption, abuse of power, and misappropriation of EU funds. The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) is looking into these claims, as asserted in a recent statement.
It's been revealed that the immunity of Hoyer and another ex-EIB staff member has been revoked. Hoyer's legal representative confirmed this on Tuesday, adding that Hoyer himself requested the removal of his immunity to confront these accusations.
According to lawyer Nikolaos Gazeas, the matter revolves around the departure of a former EIB employee and the accompanying severance payment. As common practice, the HR Director and the Secretary General of the EIB allegedly agreed and approved a separation agreement. They then presented Hoyer with a memo suggesting termination of employment and payment of a severance according to agreed terms. This memo, according to Hoyer, declared the action legally permissible. At the time as President, Hoyer is said to have approved this move, making him a part of the investigation.
Hoyer dismissed the accusations against him as "wholly ridiculous and groundless". He expressed his expectation for a thorough investigation and urged the EIB to collaborate fully with the EPPO. Hoyer stated that he himself is cooperating with the European Public Prosecutor's Office and demands a comprehensive resolution from them. He emphasizes that there's nothing to conceal. The EIB has been called upon to provide all records and details pertaining to this staff matter.
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Despite the allegations of corruption surrounding Hoyer, the former Head of EU development bank, he remains committed to a thorough investigation. Completely clearing his name is his primary goal, as he works closely with the European Public Prosecutor's Office to tackle these allegations head-on.
