Nicosia, Cyprus. The House institutions committee concluded its review on Wednesday of the framework governing post-service activities of former officials amid criticism over the government’s refusal to disclose donor information. The debate followed a legal service opinion blocking publication of donor names to a social support agency previously chaired by first lady Philippa Karsera.
Focus on oversight and conflicts of interest
Committee chair Alexandra Attalides said the session focused on strengthening oversight and safeguards against conflicts of interest. She told the Cyprus Mail that withholding donor identities on personal data protection grounds was “scandalous” and incompatible with European law.
Concerns over limits on parliamentary scrutiny
Attalides said data protection provisions cannot be used by companies or individuals to shield themselves in cases involving potential criminal conduct or serious public interest concerns. She said the current interpretation prevents parliament from naming companies, identifying organised crime links or exercising meaningful oversight.
Dispute triggered by refusal to provide donor list
The committee’s discussion was triggered by the accountant-general’s refusal, on the advice of the legal service, to submit to parliament a list of donors to the support agency and donation amounts. Authorities warned that disclosure could lead to administrative sanctions and breaches of EU data protection rules.
Investigation into alleged patronage and links to government decisions
MPs have sought the information as part of an investigation into allegations of political patronage and conflicts of interest, following reports that individuals or companies with state contracts, regulatory exposure or pending government decisions made substantial donations to the agency. An audit service report highlighted a “special relationship” because the agency’s president was married to the President of the Republic.
What impact do you think the refusal to disclose donor information has on parliamentary oversight?