The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) has launched two additional investigations into Open VLD MEP Hilde Vautmans, raising fresh questions about the use of European funds. This development, confirmed by multiple sources, follows an earlier probe opened last year. The News comes as of 2025-07-08 07:25:00, highlighting ongoing scrutiny over Vautmans’ financial dealings.
- Europees Openbaar Ministerie onderzoekt Hilde Vautmans
- Onderzoek richt zich op Europees geldgebruik
- Evenementen en paardenmanege Hippo Zoutleeuw betrokken
- Bedrijven rond Vautmans ontvingen Europese subsidies
- Europese antifraudedienst OLAF participeert in onderzoeken
- EPPO onderzoekt verboden taken voor medewerkers
Both investigations focus on the alleged misuse of EU resources connected to activities in Sint-Truiden and the surrounding region. One probe examines events organised at the Hippo Zoutleeuw equestrian centre, where European funds reportedly paid for infrastructure such as a horse jump. The other targets contracts awarded to local companies with ties to Open VLD members, including communication and social media services.
Given the involvement of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) alongside EPPO, what impact will these inquiries have on political transparency in Belgium? And how will the Open VLD respond as scrutiny intensifies? These questions set the stage for understanding the broader implications.
What does this mean for Belgian politics and EU fund management? The investigations suggest possible conflicts of interest and misuse of taxpayer money, raising concerns about accountability at the European level. Key points include:
- Use of EU funds for events and infrastructure at Hippo Zoutleeuw linked to Vautmans
- Financial ties between local companies and Open VLD affiliates receiving EU contracts
- OLAF’s involvement signals serious anti-fraud measures
- Previous accusations involved staff performing non-parliamentary tasks, still under investigation
As these investigations proceed, Belgian voters and political observers will watch closely. Will this lead to reforms in how European funds are managed locally? The coming months could prove pivotal for restoring trust and ensuring proper use of EU resources in Belgium.
