The Left formally expressed its objection to the decision to hold a vote on the European Data Protection Supervisor at the level of LIBE coordinators. The Left raised this objection at the opening of the voting session on April 8th 2025, as the move circumvents the European Parliament’s Rules of Procedure.

Estrella Galán (Sumar, Spain), Left coordinator in LIBE Committee, considers the ‘recommendation’ of LIBE Chair Javier Zarzalejos (Partido Popular Spain) –  that the decision be made at coordinators’ level in order to break a deadlock between EP and the Council – lacks any legal basis. Rule 220 of the EP Rules of Procedure clearly states that only the Committee may delegate decision-making powers to coordinators. This did not happen. The Chair does not have the authority to unilaterally recommend or impose such a procedural route.

Despite clear and timely objections, including those expressed in writing between 4 and 7 April, with the support of S&D, Greens and Renew, the Chair proceeded without securing a Committee vote on whether this matter should be delegated. Worse still, this “recommendation” was not even formally announced at the start of the LIBE meeting.

The Left condemns the fact that the Chair refused to accept our procedural objection during the session, and declined to hold a proper vote on how to proceed, despite our explicit request. 

This episode is not just a procedural misstep, it exposes a deliberate strategy by the EPP to sidestep democracy when it no longer serves their interests. By bending the rules and centralising power in the hands of a few, they show open contempt for transparent, collective decision-making. What we witnessed is a blatant power grab, driven not by concern for democratic legitimacy or the will of the people, but by political convenience and self-interest. It is a dangerous precedent that undermines the integrity of the European Parliament and the trust citizens place in its institutions.