Nicosia, Cyprus. Disy on Thursday called for the immediate appointment of the independent investigator set to examine allegations of abuse of power against former president Nicos Anastasiades contained in a report released by the anti-corruption authority. The party said the process should follow a clear timetable and be completed within three months.
Disy calls for swift appointment
Disy said “the appointment of independent criminal investigators must proceed immediately without any delay”. It added that the process must be carried out with a clear and strict timetable for completion, within three months, while making full use of the work and material already produced to date.
Disy also said it remains “in favour of a full, independent and effective investigation”.
Government outlines next steps
The government announced on Wednesday plans to appoint an independent investigator. Deputy government spokesman Yiannis Antoniou told the Cyprus Mail that the decision concerned only the “intention” to appoint an independent investigator.
He said discussions over the identity of the individual or individuals to be chosen, and whether they may be brought to Cyprus from abroad, will take place only after the legal service has received the full report.
Akel questions Disy’s position
Akel said on Wednesday that it remained unconvinced by Disy’s stance on the matter, asking, “how long will [Disy’s leadership] hide?”
It also asked, “Do they think that they are convincing anyone when they declare that they definitely want an investigation at a time when they know that the prosecutor’s office is in the hands of the Anastasiades system? Do they remain proud of Nicos Anastasiades’ government?”