Thu Sep 19 04:20:10 UTC 2024: ## European Parliament to Scrutinize von der Leyen’s Commission Team: Skeletons in the Closet Emerge

The European Parliament is set to begin its scrutiny of Ursula von der Leyen’s proposed team of commissioners, following their unveiling on Tuesday, September 17th. The commissioners will face intense questioning from the Parliament’s legal affairs committee and the committees related to their portfolios. This scrutiny comes as skeletons in the closet of some candidates begin to emerge.

**Controversial Pasts and Allegations**:

Several commissioners face criticism for their past actions and alleged misconduct. Hadja Lahbib, Belgium’s nominee for Preparedness, Crisis Management, and Equality, faces scrutiny over her controversial visit to Crimea in 2021 and her role in issuing visas to an Iranian delegation. Oliver Várhelyi, Hungary’s nominee for Health and Animal Welfare, is likely to face intense scrutiny for past controversial remarks and actions, including his suspension of EU funds to Palestine.

Raffaele Fitto, Italy’s nominee for Cohesion and Reforms, is facing opposition due to his affiliation with the ECR party and his past association with bribery and corruption allegations, despite being cleared by the Italian judicial system. Dubravka Šuica, Croatia’s nominee for Mediterranean affairs, is facing questions about her extensive travel expenses during her tenure.

Maroš Šefčovič, Slovakia’s nominee for Trade and Economic Security and Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency, faces criticism for his past campaign spending disclosures and lack of transparency. Ekaterina Zaharieva, Bulgaria’s nominee for Startups, Research, and Innovation, must address allegations of involvement in a scheme that allowed individuals to obtain Bulgarian passports for cash. Marta Kos, Slovenia’s nominee for Enlargement, faces allegations of connections with the former Yugoslav secret police.

**Scrutiny to Begin in Mid-October**:

The hearings are likely to begin in mid-October, with the Parliament evaluating the candidates’ suitability for their roles. The scrutiny will involve rigorous questioning and assessments of their political affiliations, past actions, and potential conflicts of interest.

**Concerns Over Transparency and Accountability**:

These revelations highlight concerns about transparency and accountability within the European Union. The Parliament’s scrutiny will be crucial in ensuring that the commissioners are capable and credible representatives of the EU, upholding its values and standards.

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