Metsola appoints her brother-in-law, who has worked with her for years, head of her cabinet

Brussels – Roberta Metsola appointed her longtime aide and brother-in-law (her sister’s husband), Matthew Tabone, to head her cabinet as president of the European Parliament.

Tabone joined the European Parliament in 2013 as head of Metsola’s office when she was a simple MEP. Since she was elected president, he has been part of the cabinet as head of her secretariat.

Tabone succeeds Leticia Zuleta De Reales Ansaldo, who was appointed Director of Relations with National Parliaments of the European Parliament.

Already in 2022, Metsola attempted to appoint Tabone as chief of staff. However, she was in the midst of the Qatargate scandal, and allegations of nepotism prevailed, making her withdraw the appointment.

European Parliament rules prohibit MEPs from contracting direct relatives, but Tabone is not considered a first-degree relative.