Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the former mayor of Hamburg, has repeatedly denied any political influence in the Cum-ex affair during his testimony before the investigation committee. Scholz has been questioned about his alleged involvement with the Warburg Bank and the HSH Nordbank, both implicated in tax evasion through Cum-ex transactions. Despite meeting with Warburg stakeholders, Scholz maintains he had no recollection of the discussions and insists on his commitment to a fair tax system.
The Cum-ex scandal, involving illegal tax refunds, resulted in significant financial losses for the state between 2006 and 2011. Scholz emphasizes the importance of thoroughly investigating and prosecuting such tax evasion schemes. The inquiry also involves other prominent politicians, including Hamburg's current mayor and former financial ministers, who are expected to testify.
While Scholz has faced scrutiny over his role, he continues to assert his dedication to combating tax fraud. The investigation seeks to determine if there was any undue political influence in decisions related to tax refunds at the implicated banks. However, Scholz has so far emerged unscathed legally, although questions about his political responsibility linger.
