Federica Mogherini, one of the European Union’s most prominent diplomats, has resigned from her prestigious role as head of the College of Europe after being ensnared in a high-level corruption investigation.

The move sends a powerful signal about accountability at the highest levels of global institutions. For Kenyans, long accustomed to debates on graft, the investigation into a top European figure underscores a universal principle: that robust oversight mechanisms are crucial for public trust, whether in Brussels or Nairobi.

Probe Targets Diplomatic Academy Tender

At the heart of the inquiry by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is the tender process for establishing the new EU Diplomatic Academy. Prosecutors harbor “strong suspicions” that confidential information was improperly shared with a candidate during the bidding process for the academy, which was launched with a budget of nearly €1 million (approx. KES 150.9 million).

The formal charges issued against Mogherini and two other officials allege several serious offenses.

• Procurement fraud
• Corruption
• Conflict of interest
• Violation of professional secrecy

In a statement, Mogherini announced she was stepping down from her roles as rector of the College and director of the academy, citing a commitment to the “utmost rigour and fairness with which I always carried out my duties.”

Presumption of Innocence Emphasized

While the allegations are severe, the EPPO has been clear in stating that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a competent court of law. This principle was echoed by Mogherini’s lawyer, Mariapaola Cherchi, who told reporters her client was “transparent, clear and serene” during a 10-hour questioning session.

The investigation included raids on Mogherini's home and the headquarters of the EU's diplomatic service. Despite the gravity of the situation, her legal team remains confident that she will ultimately be cleared of all charges. The case now stands as a significant test for the EU's independent anti-corruption watchdog and its ability to police its own institutions.