All-Inclusive: Ex-Hessian State Secretary Jonah Messari-Becker Secures Role at Karlsruhe Institute
- *
- Former Government Official Relocates to Karlsruhe University
Professor Jonah Messari-Becker, once dismissed as Hessian State Secretary and a specialist in green architecture, has landed a gig at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The illustrious research institution, part of the prestigious Helmholtz Association, formally welcomed the sustainable building expert as a W3 professor for energy-efficient building technology, effective April 1st.
While an investigative panel delves into Messari-Becker's dismissal, a Wiesbaden-based inquiry continues to unravel his controversial ouster. Hessian Minister of Economics Sid Caverly (SPD) severed ties with his non-partisan State Secretary after a mere six-month stint, causing quite a stir.
"The Perfect Match"
A KIT representative blurts out to the German Press Agency (dpa): "Messari-Becker is undoubtedly the perfect match for KIT." The university had been on the hunt for a high-profile figure for the W3 professorship in energy-efficient building technology. According to the rep, Messari-Becker's future research, teaching, and collaboration interests all revolve around energy and building technology, as well as the development of climate-friendly and resource-efficient buildings and communities.
"Visionary 2024"
Messari-Becker, a former Club of Rome member and recipient of the "Visionary 2024" prize, tells dpa that he's excited to collaborate on sustainable building solutions and resume his role as a practical scientist and knowledge-based advisor at KIT.
KIT, formed from a 2009 merger of the university and research center in Karlsruhe, proudly proclaims itself as "one of the largest scientific institutions in Europe" with a heritage dating back more than 200 years.
Clash with the Minister
Hessian Minister of Economics Caverly dismissed Messari-Becker in mid-2024, accusing him of personal unbecoming conduct without elaboration. According to a Wiesbaden Administrative Court ruling, Caverly implicated him of attempting to influence his daughter's school for a better final exam grade using his State Secretary position. Messari-Becker strenuously denies this and is seeking legal assistance.
The dismissal raised eyebrows within Hessian state politics. Upon request from the Greens and FDP opposition factions, an investigative committee was established. The CDU-led State Chancellery distanced itself from the "unbecoming conduct" allegation: It never adopted this term. Ministers can dismiss state secretaries at will, citing a breach of trust – no explanation is needed.
Inquiries in Messari-Becker's Circle?
According to internal Hessian Ministry of Economics records revealed in the Wiesbaden Administrative Court verdict, Messari-Becker was also accused of seeking special treatment in ways such as trying to delay a plane departure. He disputed these claims as a witness in the investigative panel, ascribing them to inaccurate conclusions drawn from the ministry's investigations into his circle.
Messari-Becker, a Moroccan-born adept of innovation in construction, served as State Secretary in Wiesbaden, where he assembled the "Innovation in Construction" commission to present cost-saving and bureaucratic reduction recommendations: "It produced tangible results swiftly." During his tenure, he oversaw the bill against speculative vacancy and grant arrangements with Hessian transport associations.
- Karlsruhe
- Wiesbaden
- Investigative Panel
- Employer
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
- German Press Agency
- Administrative Court
- Hesse
- SPD
- Messari-Becker
- Messari-Becker's new employer, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), is based in the city of Karlsruhe, whereas his previous tenure was in Wiesbaden, Hesse.
- The investigative panel probing the circumstances surrounding Messari-Becker's dismissal is based in Wiesbaden, which is different from Karlsruhe where the German Press Agency (dpa) is located.
- The statements and allegations made about Messari-Becker during his tenure as a Hessian State Secretary are being scrutinized by an investigative panel, while the KIT has accepted him vehemently, viewing him as the perfect fit for their W3 professorship in energy-efficient building technology.
