Nicosia, Cyprus. Disabilities union Kysoa said on Monday that every apology by MEP Fidias Panayiotou “insults decades of struggle” and “institutionally insults the office of MEP.” The statement followed his remarks in a November podcast about people with intellectual disabilities.
Remarks and complaint
Kysoa criticised Panayiotou over comments made in a November podcast in which he referred to people with intellectual disabilities using the term “loonies” (pelloi) while discussing Paralympic swimming classifications.
Kysoa and the European disability forum have filed a formal complaint with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
Kysoa response to apology
Kysoa said, “The fact that the otherwise remorseful MEP attributes the political claim for human rights to political expediency leads to reflection on his perception of human rights and the concept of activism.”
Panayiotou issued a public apology last week, saying he should not have used the term and apologising “to Paralympic athletes in the S14 category and to anyone offended.” He also suggested renewed attention to the matter may be politically motivated due to rising support for his party.
Kysoa rejected the apology, saying Panayiotou “has not yet realised the magnitude of his unacceptable behaviour, and as it seems, neither is he going to.” The organisation also said his claims that advocacy groups have political motives are “completely arbitrary”.
European Parliament review and possible sanctions
The European Parliament is examining the case under its code of conduct, which requires members to act with respect, protect the institution’s reputation and adhere to the EU charter of fundamental rights.
Possible sanctions range from reprimands to temporary suspension, loss of allowances, or restrictions on representing Parliament in official forums.
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