Brussels must once again face the risk that it could turn into the latest scandal regarding the appointment of top officials in EU institutions. And this time the target of criticism is the party who is supposed to monitor these practices, namely the EU Ombudsman Teresa Anjinhowho served less than a year ago at the height European People’s Party. Portugal’s European Ombudsman, who must ensure that procedures, including recruitment, are carried out correctly, has decided to appoint his former cabinet chief, the Greek lawyer. Lampros Papadiasas secretary general, the highest civil servant position in his position, with a salary of 20 thousand euros per month.
Official communication has arrived, as reported Euractiveon October 30 with an email addressed to his office staff. Anjinho himself led the selection commission and conducted interviews with the candidates. And he has final appointment authority for the position. “This is an open procedure that produces excellent applications. After a thorough selection process, the best candidates are selected – said the Ombudsman spokesperson – The selection committee selects candidates based on merit, qualifications and excellence demonstrated during the rigorous selection process”.
The Papadias case is very reminiscent of other cases that have raised scandals that have overwhelmed us Juncker Commissionwhen Luxembourg’s then president appointed his all-powerful chief of staff as secretary general of the Commission Martin Selmayra choice that earned him criticism from the Ombudsman for violating the principles of transparency and good administration. In his email, the Portuguese politician wanted to underline that “Lampros brings with him extensive inter-agency, legal and management experience, a deep commitment to the mission and values of the European Ombudsman and a clear alignment with the vision and strategic direction of the office. His expertise and guidance will be invaluable as we strengthen governance and implement our strategy”.
Among those protesting the appointment of a European mediator were also delegates 5 Star Movement in Brussels it was with Pasquale Tridico announced that “The European Parliament’s Budget Control Commission has sent a new list of questions to the office of the European Ombudsman Teresa Anjinho to explain the promotion of the head of her cabinet to secretary general, a position worth 20 thousand euros a month – we read in the press release – The credibility and role of the Institution itself is at stake: how can the Ombudsman investigate complaints of maladministration from other Institutions if the doubt of favoritism that can befall itself in such a procedure is so important? Moreover, this way of promotion does not seem to respect the most basic rules regarding conflicts of interest. We expect a clear answer from Teresa Anjinho that will dispel doubts about total transparency and respect for ethical rules, otherwise the European Parliament’s green light for budget disbursement may be threatened.”
The article The case of a new appointment in the EU, the European mediator promotes the head of his cabinet to secretary general (at 20 thousand euros per month) comes from Il Fatto Quotidiano.
