Nicosia, Cyprus. The government is continuing its search for independent criminal investigators to examine the anti-corruption authority’s Mafia State report after several lawyers reportedly declined to take part, citing conflicts of interest. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed on Friday that a number of individuals approached by President Nikos Christodoulides had refused the appointment after identifying potential conflicts.
Panel selection continues
The president is seeking to finalise a team of investigators for approval at the next cabinet meeting.
The government has ruled out appointing a single investigator and is instead opting for a panel to assess the findings of the anti-corruption authority’s inquiry into allegations made in Makarios Drousiotis’ book Mafia State.
Criteria for appointment
Letymbiotis said the main criterion remains the appointment of people of “unquestionable prestige” who have no actual or perceived conflict of interest.
He said an initial shortlist had already been compiled through recommendations from cabinet ministers and the president, but some of those approached had themselves identified conflicts which made participation inappropriate.
Responses awaited from abroad
The government is also awaiting responses from candidates outside Cyprus who have been invited to join the investigative team.
Letymbiotis said the process has taken longer because of the need to ensure complete independence.
Terms of reference in preparation
He added that the terms of reference are being prepared by the cabinet secretariat using previous experience, while any legal guidance required will come from the prosecutorial council after both the attorney-general George Savvides and his deputy Savvas Angelides recused themselves from the case.
Background to the investigation
The investigation follows the publication of the authority’s report, which concluded that former president Nicos Anastasiades may face potential criminal liability for abuse of power.
