AKEL and ALMA are voicing strong opposition to the Cabinet’s decision to renew Andreas Paschalides’ term for a third consecutive five-year term, as chairman of the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints, even though he currently serves as the criminal investigator in the Videogate case.

“This constitutes an institutional aberration; it violates every concept of good governance and ethics, and is a gross insult to the intelligence of society as a whole. When the person under investigation for institutional corruption and collusion reappoints the person investigating him, then the issue is not a legal one but a deeply political one.” ^{Haris Polykarpou, Member of the Political Bureau of AKEL}

“This is an institutional challenge. Mr. Paschalidis is the criminal investigator in the Videogate case, a case involving close associates and relatives of the President of the Republic, with allegations of funding, access to the Presidential Palace, favors granted to investors, and contributions to the now-defunct Social Support Agency, which was managed by the President’s wife.” ^ALMA

The government spokesperson took up the gauntlet, stating that the two statements lack seriousness and are obviously belated and baseless.

“The premature undermining of an institutional process is a dangerous political endeavor and serves only to further political agendas. We await the completion of any findings with the utmost respect. We do not know the outcome; we will not prejudge it, nor will we challenge it in advance. This is the responsible institutional stance. AKEL, on the other hand, reaffirms its own dismal pattern of institutional disregard. Unfortunately, ALMA has also chosen to follow the same path.” ^{Konstantinos Letympiotis, Government Spokesperson}

Andreas Paschalides will remain at the helm of the Authority until July 1, 2031.

See the report by Kleio Vourkou