A judicial investigation into former EU Commissioner and Belgian minister Didier Reynders has been launched, focusing on allegations of money laundering. The Brussels public prosecutor’s office has confirmed the probe, which reportedly centres on claims that Reynders laundered money through lottery winnings. The story was first reported by Le Soir and Dutch investigative platform Follow the Money.
The allegations suggest that Reynders purchased lottery tickets with cash over several years, purportedly using the winnings to deposit laundered funds into his bank accounts. As part of the inquiry, federal police have conducted searches at multiple properties, including Reynders’ private residences. Reynders has also been questioned by authorities.
The investigation has been ongoing for months but gained momentum after Reynders’ term as EU Commissioner for Justice ended on 1 December 2024. During his tenure, Reynders was immune from prosecution due to his position, delaying the case until his mandate expired.
A Career Under Scrutiny
Reynders, a prominent figure in Belgium’s francophone liberal MR party, has held several high-profile positions in Belgian politics. He served as Finance Minister from 1999 to 2011, during which he oversaw the operations of the National Lottery. He later became Foreign Affairs Minister before being appointed as EU Commissioner for Justice in 2019.
His tenure as a senior minister and EU Commissioner has not been without controversy. Five years ago, Reynders was accused by a former Belgian state security officer of corruption and money laundering in connection with various projects, including the construction of the Belgian embassy in the Democratic Republic of Congo and arms deals. Those allegations, however, were dismissed due to insufficient evidence.
The current investigation marks a significant escalation, as it is the first to directly involve law enforcement action such as property raids and interrogations.
Political and Legal Implications
The timing of the investigation is notable, coming just days after Reynders was succeeded as Belgium’s EU Commissioner by fellow MR party member Hadja Lahbib. The probe could have repercussions for the MR party, as Reynders has been a key figure in its leadership for decades.
Additionally, the investigation may raise questions about the safeguards against financial misconduct among high-ranking officials in Belgium and the EU. Critics have pointed to Reynders’ oversight of the National Lottery during his time as Finance Minister as a potential conflict of interest, given the nature of the allegations.
Reynders has not publicly commented on the investigation at this stage, and it remains unclear whether he will face formal charges.
A Broader Context
The case also draws attention to the broader issue of financial crimes within European politics. In recent years, the EU has sought to strengthen anti-money laundering measures, including the creation of a dedicated Anti-Money Laundering Authority. If proven, the allegations against Reynders could serve as a high-profile example of the challenges in combating financial corruption at the highest levels of power.
For now, the investigation continues, with Belgian authorities and federal police scrutinising evidence. It remains to be seen how this case will evolve and what impact it may have on Reynders’ legacy and the political landscape in Belgium.
Read also:
Corruption Remains a Serious Concern for Citizens and Businesses in the EU
