Government responds to criticism regarding independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalidis

Government Spokesperson Constantinos Letymbiotis issued a formal response to criticism from the AKEL party and the ALMA organization regarding the appointment and tenure renewal of independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalidis. AKEL and ALMA have alleged a conflict of interest, suggesting the renewal of Paschalidis's position as head of the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints (AADIPA) constitutes a questionable transaction. The government explicitly rejects these claims, arguing that the two roles are institutionally distinct and that the appointment was not made by the Council of Ministers. Letymbiotis asserted that the criticism aims to undermine public institutions for political and communication purposes. The government stated that it respects the ongoing investigation and will await the final report without prejudging its conclusions. The spokesperson criticized the opposition for attempting to discredit the investigator and the inquiry process before a result is reached. The government maintains that Paschalidis's dual role does not affect his independence or impartiality.