Cyprus government weighs appointing independent investigators for Mafia State probe
The Cypriot Cabinet announced its intention to appoint one or more independent criminal investigators to assist with the investigation into the Independent Authority Against Corruption’s report titled 'Mafia State'. This decision follows the recusal of Attorney General George Savvides, Deputy Attorney General Savvas Angelides, and Director of Criminal Law Elena Kleopa from handling the case. Attorney General Savvides cited his personal friendship with former President Nicos Anastasiades as a reason for his withdrawal, while Kleopa recused herself because she testified as a witness before the authority. The Legal Service has transferred the responsibility for the report to a special Prosecutorial Council composed of senior officials. Although the Authority informed the Legal Service that the full report would not be delivered until Monday, the officials proceeded with the recusal announcement to maintain public trust. Legal experts suggest that given the high profile of the case and the potential for conflicts of interest, the state may eventually need to seek external cooperation from entities like the European Public Prosecutor's Office. The government emphasized its commitment to the rule of law and the presumption of innocence while promising to address the reported findings through appropriate institutional processes.