New developments have emerged in the ongoing controversy surrounding the Pirate Party’s financial management. Following further inquiry, RTL.lu has confirmed that the European Public Prosecutor’s Office recently carried out a seizure of several accounts used by the political party.
The investigation is focused on former party president Sven Clement, as well as a former treasurer. A total sum between €20,000 and €25,000 has been frozen.
One of the party’s coordinators, Ben Lomel, expressed his shock when asked for comment by RTL.lu. The party’s future leadership is scheduled to meet on 3 June to determine how to respond to the court-appointed seizure.
Lomel said the party leadership would likely meet together – possibly with Mr Clement – to discuss and consult on the future direction of the party, adding that the allegations were already known and not new.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the Pirate Party remains financially operational.
The seizure is linked to the so-called MALT case – a translation app developed at the height of the refugee crisis, following a request by the government and the National Office of Hospitality. It was later revealed that the funds received to develop the app had not been used for that purpose.
As a result of the controversy, the North deputy Ben Polidori left the party last year. His departure sparked public accusations of bullying between the remaining deputies, Sven Clement and Marc Goergen, and also leading to further local representatives to resign.
See also:
Does the Pirate Party owe tens of thousands in tax funds?
