Key facts
- The EPPO is investigating the EPP over alleged misuse of funds.
- The probe concerns over €500,000 awarded to two Greek consultants.
- The European Parliament refused to reimburse the full contract costs.
- The EPP is left to pay roughly €350,000 itself.
The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is investigating the center-right European People’s Party (EPP) over allegations of misusing funds in contracts with two Greek consultants. The probe focuses on over half a million euros awarded to the consultants ahead of the 2024 European election. The European Parliament, which finances European political parties, deemed the costs excessive and refused to reimburse the full amount, covering only the initial €110,000 and leaving the EPP to pay approximately €350,000. Former EPP employees reportedly told media outlets that the consultants' fees were disproportionate to the work performed, though the consultants dispute this and claim to have reimbursed part of the money.