Paris Prosecutor's Office Opens Investigation Of Rape Allegations Of Minister Zacharopoulou

JAKARTA - The Paris prosecutor's office said on Wednesday it had opened an investigation into allegations of rape against France's Foreign Minister for Development and Francophonie, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, after two complaints were received.

The first complaint for rape was filed on May 25, leading to the opening of the investigation on May 27. A second complaint was filed on June 16, the prosecutor's office said.

The official in the minister's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on this matter.

Zacharopoulou, a trained doctor, previously worked as an obstetrician before moving into politics. French media previously reported the complaint was related to his professional activities.

Earlier last month another newly appointed minister, Damien Abad, Minister for Solidarity and People with Disabilities, was already facing mounting pressure over allegations of rape by two women.

Abad has denied the accusations leveled against him, saying he has no intention of resigning from the government.

The investigation adds further pressure on President Emmanuel Macron's government, after this weekend's election setback in parliament.

Voters on Sunday delivered what for France is a parliament that is rarely hung, with Macron's centrist alliance 44 seats under an absolute majority, and a broad left-wing and right-wing alliance battling to become the main opposition force, while conservatives could become king makers. which determine.