Nicosia, Cyprus. The anti-corruption authority acknowledged delays in completing its investigation into the book Mafia State, citing staffing issues while insisting the probe remains on course and insulated from political pressure ahead of May parliamentary elections.
Reasons for the delay
In a statement issued on Thursday, the authority said the postponement of its final report was due to “objective difficulties” and not the substance of the inquiry into Mafia State, written by investigative journalist Makarios Drousiotis.
It said two of the four inspection officers were allegedly unable to work for extended periods because of health problems, while a third officer’s appointment to the public service required a temporary deferral.
Status of the investigation
The authority said it “admits the existence of a delay in the delivery of the final report,” adding that the investigation “is proceeding normally, with full supervision,” with draft chapters already submitted.
It said drafts covering three of the five chapters and part of a fourth have been received, which it said reflected the “zeal and efficiency” of the inspection team.
Next steps and timing
The officers are expected to deliver their completed report by the end of April, after which the authority will examine the findings before issuing a public announcement.
It cautioned that “due to the enormous volume of evidence and the length of the report, a time will be required that cannot be determined in advance.”
Scope and public attention
The investigation, launched after the publication of Mafia State, examines allegations of systemic corruption and abuse of power, including claims involving former president Nicos Anastasiades, who has denied wrongdoing and pursued legal action against Drousiotis.
The authority said the case has drawn intense public attention, with more than a hundred witnesses heard and hundreds of pieces of evidence gathered over two years.
Elections context
With parliamentary elections scheduled in May, the authority said it would carry out its mandate “regardless of the above date,” while acknowledging that the delay could fuel scepticism.
What do you think the authority should disclose about its timeline before the May parliamentary elections?