Nicosia, Cyprus. Investigators examining the affair known as ‘Videogate’ updated the attorney-general this week, with reports on Thursday indicating they may have found new evidence that could result in criminal indictments. Independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalides reportedly met senior officials at the attorney-general’s office on Wednesday.
New information under review
Daily Politis reported that new information had emerged which, if further investigated, could alter the current assessment of the case. Until now, available evidence has reportedly not substantiated criminal offences by aides to President Nikos Christodoulides.
Possible extension to findings
If the new information requires additional examination, Paschalides may seek another extension for submitting his findings to the attorney-general. Otherwise, the report is due to be delivered on June 16 as scheduled.
Attorney-general to make final decision
Regardless of whether the report recommends indictments, the final decision rests with the attorney-general.
Background to the case
The case centres on a video posted online on January 8 by an account using the name ‘Emily Thompson’. The eight-minute clip showed conversations involving the president’s then chief of staff Charalambos Charalambous, former energy minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis and Cyfield CEO Giorgos Chrysochos.
The conversations concerned apparent ‘pay-to-play’ patronage of donors, campaign financing and a €150 million investment linked to the Vasiliko power plant.
Resignations and response
Charalambous resigned from his post following the publication of the video. First Lady Philippa Karsera also stepped down as chair of the now disbanded Social Support Agency after references to the organisation appeared in the published material.
From the outset, the president rejected the allegations and described the video as “a product of fabrication, distortion and a hybrid attack”.