Tax department employee faces disciplinary probe after investigation finds no evidence of alleged abuses

Nicosia, Cyprus. A suspended tax department employee is facing a disciplinary probe after an investigation into her allegations of abuse of power, intimidation or retaliation found no supporting evidence, it was reported on Wednesday. The investigating authority said it identified administrative and procedural issues and made recommendations.

Findings to be forwarded to officials

The authority said the 133-page findings of its investigation will be sent to the public service commission and the tax commissioner. It added that no member of the authority will be making any statement on the issue.

Publication of results and transparency

The authority said the prohibition on making information public about the investigation was being lifted, noting that the tax department was a public authority accountable to the public. It said it had deemed it necessary to publicise the results for reasons of public interest and strengthening transparency.

Allegations raised in the complaint

The complaint was filed by a tax department employee against the department and her superiors, alleging actions of corruption and/or abuse of power, vindictive behaviour, targeting and retaliation. The employee said the alleged actions resulted in the loss of revenue for the department.

Claims of inaction and unfair treatment

The employee said complaints made since 2014 were not investigated and that no measures were taken to restore legality. She also said she had been unfairly treated, transferred and marginalised following complaints she had filed.

How the investigation was conducted

The authority held six hearings, took testimonies from nine people including the complainant, and examined a bulk of documents.

What should public authorities disclose to ensure accountability while investigations are ongoing?