OKYPY defends decision to keep accused doctor in position

On July 31, 2026, the State Health Services Organisation (OKYPY) in Cyprus faced scrutiny regarding its handling of serious allegations of medical negligence against a clinic director. Despite public and media pressure, the doctor remains in his post as the head of the clinic while an investigation is underway.

OKYPY spokesperson Charalambos Charilaou defended the organisation’s actions, asserting that all procedures are in full compliance with current legislation. Responding to journalists who questioned why the doctor was not suspended—a common practice in other public sectors—Charilaou explained that suspension is not a punitive measure. He stated that it is only applied if there is a risk that the ongoing investigation might be compromised. He reiterated the legal principle of the presumption of innocence, noting that an accused professional is not automatically removed from their duties simply due to pending allegations.

The organisation maintains that its response to such incidents is immediate and objective. The investigation into the medical negligence claims continues, with the official stance being that administrative suspension is not currently deemed necessary to ensure the integrity of the inquiry.