Former President Nicos Anastasiades responds to corruption allegations
Former President of Cyprus, Nicos Anastasiades, held a press conference on Tuesday to refute the findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority regarding the 'Mafia State' book written by Makarios Drousiotis. Anastasiades rejected all allegations of corruption and influence peddling, claiming that the accusations regarding his relationship with Russian businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev and other issues had already been investigated and dismissed. He emphasized that the legislation involving Rybolovlev was passed almost unanimously by the Parliament and supported by various state institutions. While critics, including legal expert Christos Kliridis and the AKEL party, argue that the former president failed to address specific accusations and maintained a defensive stance, Anastasiades demanded the immediate appointment of criminal investigators to establish the truth. He characterized the public reaction as a 'trial by social media' and emphasized the constitutional right to the presumption of innocence. The AKEL party has called for a full investigation and the resignation of the Attorney General and his deputy to restore institutional credibility. Anastasiades stated he would waive his legal immunity if necessary to facilitate the investigation.