Unveiling the Dismissal Scandal: The U-Committee Probe into Minister Messari-Becker's Actions
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Investigative Panel Hearing on Termination Dispute - Absence of Chairperson - No response received from the Commission regarding the emergency procedure request.
The once-powerful Hessian Minister of Economics, Lamia Messari-Becker, is under intense scrutiny following her dismissal of a former personal advisor. This embarrassing situation unfolded during the parliamentary Investigation Committee hearings, investigating the controversial dismissal of an independent professor of building physics. No longer active in the ministry, the disgruntled advisor spoke out about his tumultuous exit.
He recounted a heated argument with Messari-Becker over a two to three-week backlog of unprocessed files he reported. This episode ended with a turbulent outburst from Messari-Becker, including insults and sexually degrading comments against the ministry's leadership. The witness divulged these details in Wiesbaden.
A similar account came from a former assistant to the former State Secretary. Messari-Becker was reported to reserve Wednesday mornings for personal sports and work from home on Fridays.
In a previous committee session, Messari-Becker vehemently refuted various allegations against her. She described the ministry as a challenging environment for a political newcomer, riddled with unclear responsibilities, lengthy decision-making processes, and inappropriate language. "It was tough, especially as a woman," she commented.
Economy Minister Kaweh Mansoori (SPD) sacked Messari-Becker in July 2024 due to unspecified "private misconduct." A decision by the Administrative Court of Wiesbaden concluded that Mansoori primarily accused her of pressuring for a better Abitur grade in a parent-teacher conference for one of her daughters, exploiting her position as State Secretary. Messari-Becker denies these accusations and is fighting back with legal help.
An expert assessment found that the state of Hesse, as Messari-Becker's employer, did not breach its duty of care during her dismissal. Administrative law expert Michael Bauerle from the Hessian University of Public Management and Security justified Minister Mansoori's public statement on the grounds for the damaged trust relationship. He explained that the retirement of a State Secretary would have attracted media attention, necessitating an answer by Mansoori.
However, another expert, Thorsten Masuch, accused Mansoori of neglecting his duty of care in the January Investigation Committee session. Masuch believed Messari-Becker was left defenseless in the public eye.
The Hessian data protection officer, Alexander Roßnagel, reported that his office had received two complaints relating to the dismissal affair. Without revealing specifics, he could not find any breaches of data protection regulations.
The Mayor of Darmstadt, Hanno Benz (SPD), also testified in the committee about another allegation against Messari-Becker. She is accused of trying to halt a neighboring property expansion in her city to avoid potential views into her property, supposedly as a high-ranking official in the building authority. The former building authority director confirmed this, while Messari-Becker denied it, maintaining her intention was to exercise her citizen's right to inspect.
Mayor Benz clarified that he had informed Minister Mansoori about the matter due to its sensitivity and to protect his staff from misinformation. "We don't grant special privileges in building matters," stressed the mayor.
- Investigative Committee
- Wiesbaden
- Sports
- Dismissal
- SPD
Understanding Allegations Investigations
When addressing allegations against public officials, investigations typically follow a set process. The initial review examines the validity and relevance of the accusations, and evidence is collected. Interviews are conducted with all parties involved, and the investigation must observe strict legal standards to ensure fairness and transparency. After gathering all necessary information, a report detailing the findings is compiled, and appropriate actions are taken based on the findings.
When sexual misconduct allegations arise, they are treated with sensitivity and confidentiality. Support services are often provided to those who have made allegations, and investigations are conducted promptly to ensure a swift resolution.
The Investigation Process
- Initial Review: The investigation begins with a review of the allegations to determine their validity and relevance.
- Evidence Collection: All relevant evidence is gathered, which may include witness statements, documents, emails, or any other communication that supports or contradicts the allegations.
- Interviews with Parties Involved: Interviews are conducted with the accuser and the accused. These help to clarify the circumstances and obtain more detailed information.
- Legal Considerations: The investigation adheres to legal standards and regulations to ensure fairness and protect the rights of all parties.
- Report and Recommendations: After gathering all necessary information, a report detailing the findings is compiled, including recommendations for further action.
- Action and Follow-Up: Depending on the findings, appropriate actions are taken—disciplinary measures, additional training, or no action if the allegations are deemed unfounded.
- The dismissal of the former personal advisor to Minister Messari-Becker and the subsequent parliamentary Investigation Committee hearing raise questions about the minister's employment policy within the ministry.
- The Investigation Committee's probe into Minister Messari-Becker's actions also involves investigations into the minister's involvement in politics, policy-and-legislation, and general news, including the controversial dismissal of an independent professor and allegations of sexual misconduct.
