Nicosia: The Government 'categorically rejects' any insinuations about illegal or irregular activity involving any member of the Government, Deputy Minister to the President, Irini Piki, stated on Friday. This response came as questions arose from journalists regarding a video circulating on social media that alleges instances of access to the Government, financing, and investments.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Piki addressed the issue during a press conference focused on the outcomes of the President of the Republic's engagements in the US to promote Cyprus as an investment hub. She emphasized that the Government operates in an institutional and transparent manner concerning investment attraction and expressed her belief that the video would not tarnish Cyprus's image internationally.
Piki highlighted previous statements by the Government Spokesperson and official declarations regarding any further developments on the matter. When questioned about the potential negative impact of the video on the Government's investment attraction efforts, she provided insights into the institutional procedures followed in securing investments, emphasizing transparency.
Piki remarked, "I do not believe that it is something that affects Cyprus' image, especially if we see how this video was reproduced. But we are certainly monitoring the issue," and asserted that "the honour and name and reputation of our country are above everything and above anything and anyone."
Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, also commented, asserting that the video should not hinder efforts characterized by 'absolute transparency from the outset.'
Regarding access to the Presidential Palace, Piki reiterated the Government's rejection of any insinuations about illegal or irregular activities. She clarified that there is no specific procedure for investors wishing to contact the Presidential Palace, often directing them to Invest Cyprus as the initial contact point. She also mentioned a dedicated business service center for facilitating investment inquiries.
Piki refuted claims of private meetings for investments at the Presidential Palace, explaining that any meetings held there are not private. She noted that state officials, including herself, often provide procedural and legislative information to interested investors, stressing the Government's commitment to attracting quality investments.
The controversy stems from a video released on social media on Thursday, alleging illegal financing during President Nikos Christodoulides's presidential campaign. The Law Office of the Republic, responding to inquiries from CNA, initially refrained from commenting but later indicated that "competent authorities" had received specific instructions.
Police Spokesperson Vyron Vyronos confirmed that investigations are in the preliminary stages, with efforts underway to analyze the video and determine if it has been altered. The identity of the individual who posted the video on platform X remains unknown.
In response to the video's release, parliamentary parties have called for swift action. DISY demanded an immediate investigation into all aspects of the case. AKEL announced plans to send a letter to the Attorney General, the Authority Against Corruption, and the Police Chief, urging an investigation into the video content and calling for the resignation of the President's Office Director. DIPA urged authorities to 'act immediately, to shed light on the real facts of the case.' EDEK advocated for a 'full investigation, with the aim of providing the government with unwavering explanations through legal and scientific means.' The Greens expressed their expectation for 'clear and documented answers' from the President and the Government.