Nimityskomission

The Nimityskomission, officially known as the *Kommission zur Untersuchung der Umstände des Todes des Bundeskanzlers Walter Scheel* (Commission to Investigate the Circumstances of the Death of Chancellor Walter Scheel), was a German parliamentary inquiry commission established in 1978 following the death of Walter Scheel, the former German Federal President and former Vice Chancellor under Willy Brandt. Scheel died under mysterious circumstances in his home in Bonn, raising questions about the cause of death and potential irregularities.

The commission was formed by the German Bundestag to examine the events surrounding Scheel’s death, which occurred on June 25, 1978. The inquiry focused on whether foul play or negligence had contributed to his death, particularly given reports of unusual behavior in the days leading up to his passing. Scheel had been hospitalized earlier in June with symptoms including confusion and respiratory issues, which later investigations suggested may have been linked to carbon monoxide poisoning.

The commission’s findings, published in 1979, concluded that Scheel’s death was likely caused by natural causes, possibly exacerbated by pre-existing health conditions. However, it also noted inconsistencies in the medical reports and the handling of his case by authorities. The inquiry did not definitively rule out the possibility of external interference but found insufficient evidence to support criminal charges. The report sparked public debate about medical ethics, institutional oversight, and the transparency of official investigations.

The Nimityskomission’s work remains a notable example of parliamentary scrutiny in Germany, highlighting the role of such commissions in addressing unresolved or controversial deaths. Its findings contributed to reforms in how high-profile deaths are investigated, particularly in cases involving public figures. The case also drew attention to the broader issue of carbon monoxide poisoning in medical settings, leading to increased awareness and safety measures.