ECtHR asks Cyprus questions over former auditor-general Michaelides’ dismissal

Nicosia, Cyprus. The European Court of Human Rights has sent questions to the parties in former auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides’ appeal against the Republic of Cyprus over his dismissal.

Court questions

The appeal was lodged on December 9, 2024. The Republic was notified on August 20, 2026, of two questions set out by the court.

The ECtHR asked whether there had been an interference with Michaelides’ freedom of expression under Article 10(1) of the European Convention on Human Rights. If so, it asked whether the interference was prescribed by law, pursued one or more legitimate aims under Article 10(2), and was necessary in a democratic society.

On September 4, it was announced that the ECtHR had notified Cyprus of part of Michaelides’ appeal concerning an alleged violation of his right to freedom of expression.

Michaelides’ response

In a post on X, Michaelides described the development as positive, while acknowledging that it did not prejudge the admissibility of the case or the court’s final ruling on the substance of his complaint.

Dismissal ruling

Michaelides was dismissed by the Supreme Constitutional Court in September 2024.

In a unanimous decision by a panel of eight judges, the court found that his conduct had been inappropriate and that he was unfit for his duties.

The 209-page ruling said Michaelides had repeatedly misinformed the public, crossed the line and failed to meet the minimum standards of conduct required by his office. It also found that he had repeatedly sought to undermine Attorney-General George Savvides’ legal opinions.

Michaelides rejected the judgment and has described his dismissal as politically motivated.