Belgian MEP Hilde Vautmans (Open VLD) claims that numerous allegations against her regarding misuse of funds and inappropriate behaviour are an attempt to tank her success in upcoming elections.
Dozens of former employee testimonies collected by Knack reveal the repeated misuse of European funds for Vautmans' work that is separate to the EU (she is also a city councillor in Sint-Truiden, Limburg). In addition, the MEP reportedly bullied her staff.
Speaking to VRT radio on Monday, Vautmans said these allegations were an attempt to smear her character just four weeks before European elections on 9 June.
"Luckily, everything you organise with European money is subject to very strict rules," she explained. "You have to apply for things in advance, you have to do it according to the rules and you have to submit all the evidence. Only then is the money paid out." The MEP added that the European Parliament has just confirmed that all her expenditure has adhered to regulations.
Regarding allegations of toxic behaviour, Vautmans denied any wrongdoing but said she was open to discussion. "All I can say is that I have never received any complaints in my entire career. If there are people who feel really wronged, who want to talk to me: my door is open."
'Psychological intimidation'
The allegations laid out by Knack are wide-ranging. Concerning questionable expenditure, Vautmans apparently hired individuals under her European mandate but had them carry out unrelated personal tasks for her.
Other European employees were forced to use days off to assist her in canvassing in Limburg, and many were denied phone allowances even though MEPs receive €4,950 per month for this purpose.
Accompanying this malpractise was what victims referred to as "WhatsApp terror" and "psychological intimidation". Vautmans argues that the anonynmity of these sources and the absence of an official report prove that these claims are nothing but "slanderous defamation".
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Meanwhile, Open VLD has come out in full support of its MEP, who is at the top of its candidate list for the European election in a few week's time.
"Hilde is one of the most hardworking MEPs who has made headway on several important issues, often emotionally heavy dossiers," the party stated. "Hilde says she may have underestimated the impact of this on her staff. People who feel hurt can always speak to Hilde, to a staff member of the European Parliament or to the party."
