'Mafia State': Difficulties in identifying independent criminal investigators
The President faces obstacles in finding independent investigators to examine the findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority regarding the 'Mafia State' scandal.
'Mafia State': Difficulties in identifying independent criminal investigators
The President of the Republic's effort to assemble a team of independent criminal investigators to examine the findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority in the 'Mafia State' case is encountering resistance.
According to reporting by the newspaper Politis, initial approaches to prospective investigators were unsuccessful. The individuals approached declined to take on the task, citing conflicts of interest or incompatibility. Their refusal is linked to the difficulty and complexity of the case, as well as to the fact that the report names individuals who held high institutional positions.
During a Cabinet session, Mr Christodoulides informed ministers of the actions currently underway. Government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that the search for candidates is not limited to Cyprus alone and that the participation of foreigners in the investigative team is not ruled out.
The Presidency seeks for the team to consist of three to four individuals, with one of them designated as head. Among the candidates being considered is a person with experience in European judicial institutions. The evaluation is carried out by the Cabinet, with the aim of completing the criminal investigation within a reasonable timeframe.
Source: Politis