Nicosia, Cyprus. The government will bring forward a proposal to reform the independent social support body rather than abolish it, reports said on Tuesday. The charity has faced controversy after being mentioned in an online video clip linked to the ‘Videogate’ affair.
Charity background and leadership changes
Driven exclusively by private donations, the charity was set up in 2014 to offer financial assistance to disadvantaged students. It is chaired by the spouse of the president.
In the wake of the ‘Videogate’ affair, first lady Philippa Karsera resigned her position. President Nikos Christodoulides had initially indicated he was considering scrapping the charity.
Government bill and committee discussion
Politis reported that the president has since changed his mind and that the government will table a bill amending the charity’s function.
Irini Piki, the under-secretary to the president, confirmed this to the daily. She is set to attend Wednesday’s session of the House ethics committee, which will discuss the future of the charity.
Parliamentary proposals and donor disclosure
MPs have tabled two bills on the matter. A proposal from Akel calls for abolishing the charity and transferring its functions to the state scholarships foundation.
A second proposal from Disy would retain the charity in its present form while introducing operational changes aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability.
Earlier, MPs sought the release of donor names and donation amounts, but the state treasurer declined, citing a legal opinion from the attorney-general.
What changes do you think are needed to ensure transparency and accountability in the charity’s operation?
