EU prosecutors still have questions for von der Leyen over Pfizergate

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) is currently investigating allegations of criminal wrongdoing related to the procurement of coronavirus vaccines, involving European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla. According to legal documents seen by POLITICO, von der Leyen has been accused of "interference in public functions, destruction of SMS, corruption and conflict of interest."

The Commission spokesperson, Thomas Regnier, has stated that the Commission has cooperated extensively with EPPO to clarify facts and assess events, and that von der Leyen has always been cooperative in answering any open questions within the limits of her duties and availability.

EPPO chief prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi, who is set to leave her position on Friday, has expressed concerns about the institution's ability to function effectively. Kövesi has faced repeated attacks and attempts to undermine EPPO and its work, particularly in countries like Greece where there have been attempts to intimidate prosecutors.

In Greece, the EPPO has faced challenges due to a farm funding scandal and the resignation of ministers and deputy ministers. Kövesi has also raised concerns about the impact of budgetary restrictions on EPPO's work in other EU countries, including Hungary, Poland, and Greece.

Kövesi emphasized that the EPPO's credibility is at stake in countries where expectations have been high, but the organization has been unable to deliver on its promises. She warned that if EPPO is asked to abstain from investigating alleged misuse of funds, its work could effectively come to a halt. The chief prosecutor expressed confidence in her successor, German prosecutor Andrés Ritter, who will face the challenge of keeping EPPO independent and credible.