European Parliament Revokes Immunity of MEP Alessandra Moretti Amid Corruption Allegations

The European Parliament has recently taken a significant step by revoking the immunity of Italian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Alessandra Moretti, who represents the Democratic Party (PD). This decision follows allegations from the Belgian prosecutor suggesting her involvement in the high-profile Qatargate scandal, a case of suspected corruption that has drawn attention across Europe, particularly concerning the interests of Qatar and Morocco. The vote concluded with 497 in favor, 139 against, and 15 abstentions. In contrast, the immunity of another Italian MEP, Elisabetta Gualmini, also from the PD, was upheld despite a previous request from Belgian prosecutors for its revocation earlier in March. Moretti expressed her disappointment regarding the Parliament's decision, alleging that the vote was influenced by political and electoral maneuvers rather than a fair assessment of the case. In the ongoing investigation dubbed Qatargate, which has seen little progress recently, notable arrests were made on December 10, 2022. Among those detained were several prominent figures, including Greek MEP Eva Kaili and former Italian MEP Antonio Panzeri, who now works as a lobbyist. They, alongside others, are accused of being part of a network that allegedly promoted the interests of Qatar and Morocco within the European Parliament in exchange for significant financial payouts. The focal point of the investigation revolves around Antonio Panzeri, accused of orchestrating this network with the support of various European parliamentarians, assistants, and officials. Moretti is under scrutiny for allegedly favoring Qatar, but in an interview with the Italian publication Corriere della Sera, she strongly denied any wrongdoing. She claimed that there has been no evidence linking her to financial transactions, asserting that she has never received benefits, gifts, or advantages from any parties, including Morocco or Qatar. As the investigation progresses, the implications of this decision by the European Parliament may reverberate through Italian politics and beyond, especially as it intertwines with the broader issues of corruption and accountability within the European Union. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2