Belgian prosecutors have asked the European Parliament to lift the immunity of several MEPs. Part of an ongoing investigation into alleged influence efforts linked to Huawei. One of the lawmakers named in the request, Italian MEP Fulvio Martusciello, has denied any wrongdoing. He says the financial transfers under scrutiny were personal reimbursements from a former aide. The case has drawn attention not only because of the allegations themselves but also because of the procedural steps required when prosecutors seek to question sitting MEPs.
The investigation began in 2025. Belgian police carried out coordinated raids on the homes and offices of lobbyists and parliamentary assistants suspected of involvement in improper influence activities.
During these searches, investigators found documents, communications, and a draft letter supporting Huawei’s position on 5G deployment in Europe.
The letter, discovered on a suspect’s computer, warned against excluding Huawei and other Chinese vendors from European networks. Authorities are examining whether payments were offered to the letter’s author or co signatories. Though no court has ruled on the matter. A leaked document from the investigation indicates that an intermediary received nearly €46,000 in early 2021 from companies that regularly provided services to Huawei. Investigators say the funds were later redistributed to several individuals, including Martusciello. The intermediary’s lawyer has stated that his client contests the allegations and will present explanations to the investigating judge.
Key Individuals, Financial Transfers, and Disputed Documents
Martusciello says the transfers to his account—totaling €6,700—were traceable reimbursements for cash he had lent during a difficult period. He maintains that he has never received benefits from Huawei. Another element under review is an internal report written by a former Huawei lobbyist describing a meeting with Martusciello in late 2023.
Martusciello denies the meeting occurred and says the report is fabricated. Past reporting has included claims from former colleagues of the lobbyist alleging that he created documents for meetings that never took place.
These details form part of the broader case file Belgian authorities are analyzing.
As the investigation continues, prosecutors have asked the European Parliament to lift the immunity of four MEPs, including Martusciello. Parliamentary immunity does not prevent prosecution but does require formal approval before investigators can question or charge an MEP in connection with their duties. The request triggers a multi step process. A rapporteur is appointed to review the case, the legal affairs committee debates and votes on the recommendation, and the final decision is made by the full Parliament in a plenary session. In most cases, the plenary follows the committee’s recommendation.
The Immunity Process
The legal affairs committee is expected to vote on the immunity request at its next meeting. If the committee supports lifting immunity, the matter will move to a plenary vote shortly afterward. Martusciello has urged colleagues to reject the request. Arguing that the evidence presented does not justify removing parliamentary protections and that doing so prematurely could undermine institutional procedures.
Several individuals connected to the case were previously charged with bribery, money laundering, or participation in a criminal organization, though all have been released pending possible trial. Belgian authorities continue to analyze financial flows, communications, and lobbying activities to determine whether improper influence occurred.
Huawei has stated that it regrets the length of the immunity proceedings. Saying the delays prevent investigators from questioning the MEPs involved. The company says it is cooperating with authorities as the investigation moves forward.
The coming committee and plenary votes will determine whether prosecutors can proceed with questioning the MEPs at the center of the case. Until then, the investigation remains active, with further developments expected as procedural steps unfold.