Alpha News

Foulas Comments on Allegations Against Panayiotou, Claims MEPs are Accountable for Every Euro

Published January 22, 2026, 14:26

MEP Lucas Foulas commented on the allegations against Fidias Panayiotou and the European Public Prosecutor's Office investigation into the alleged misappropriation of EU funds. Mr. Foulas described Mr. Panayiotou's defense as “incorrect” and suggested that all MEPs should publish their monthly expenses. He expressed his belief that the investigation would not take long and that answers would be forthcoming soon. Regarding Mr. Panayiotou's claim that he paid salaries out of his own pocket due to bureaucratic delays, Mr. Foulas replied that this is not the case in practice, as the salaries of assistants are paid directly from the MEP's budget. He explained that the payroll of assistants is managed by an approved accountant from the European Parliament. He also referred to a previous case involving Ms. Le Pen, where money paid by assistants had to be returned. Mr. Foulas emphasized that all MEPs are accountable for every euro spent, whether on salaries or operating expenses, from the first day of taking office.