Martin Selmayr originally had not wanted to become secretary-general of the European Commission, his predecessor revealed on Monday (27 January).
"He actually did not want to become secretary-general," said Alexander Italianer, who filled the same post from September 2015 to March 2018.
He was replaced by Selmayr in a lightning-fast 'backroom' procedure - which was heavily criticised by both the European Parliament and the European Ombudsman.
Until becoming secretary-genera...
Enjoy access to all articles and 25 years of archives, comment and gift articles. Become a member for as low as €1,75 per week.
Already a member? LoginPeter Teffer is a freelance journalist in the Netherlands, and former investigations editor at EUobserver.
Peter Teffer is a freelance journalist in the Netherlands, and former investigations editor at EUobserver.