OPEKEPE subsidy scandal reaches Greek Parliament as probe widens

A major corruption investigation tied to agricultural subsidies in Greece is escalating, as case files linked to the OPEKEPE scandal are being formally transmitted to Parliament following review by the country’s highest judicial authorities.

According to documents submitted to the Supreme Court of Greece, 18 current and former lawmakers from the ruling New Democracy party are at the center of a second extensive investigation led by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO).

Case Moves from Judiciary to Parliament
Due to the involvement of political figures, the case files were forwarded to the Justice Ministry, which is expected to submit them to Parliament by Thursday or, at the latest, Friday. The move could trigger formal procedures regarding parliamentary immunity and potential prosecutions.

Two Main Case Files Identified
The investigation is reportedly divided into two primary case files:

First file: Involves 11 sitting New Democracy MPs. Parliament’s ethics committee is expected to initiate procedures to lift their immunity. Some of those implicated currently hold ministerial positions, though the alleged offenses are tied to their roles as MPs—not their executive duties.

Second file: Concerns a former minister and a former deputy agriculture minister. Their cases will be processed under constitutional provisions governing ministerial responsibility.

A third group, consisting of five former MPs, will be investigated directly by EPPO authorities in Athens, bypassing parliamentary procedures.

Scope of the Investigation
The probe focuses on the 2020–2021 period, with authorities analyzing extensive evidence, including wiretapped phone conversations. Allegations include:

• Abuse of trust
• Computer-based fraud
• Forgery and falsification of documents

While no formal charges have yet been filed, officials note that the alleged offenses may constitute both misdemeanors and felonies.

The investigation originated in 2020 following a prosecutorial complaint regarding financial irregularities in agricultural subsidies distributed through OPEKEPE.

Key Evidence and Ongoing Developments
Between 2024 and 2025, European prosecutors requested full transcription and analysis of recorded communications. Greek organized crime units completed the processing of this material over the past six months.

Leaked excerpts reportedly indicate that lawmakers and officials were in contact with then-OPEKEPE president Dimitris Melas, discussing subsidy payments.

Additional recordings from the 2022–2024 period are still under review, and further case files are expected in the coming months.