Cypriot authorities investigate crowdfunding campaign by journalist Makarios Drousiotis

Journalist and author Makarios Drousiotis is facing legal scrutiny following the launch of an online crowdfunding campaign via the GoGetFunding platform to cover his legal fees. The campaign, titled "I ask for your help to defend the truth," has reportedly raised over €46,000, though early reports suggested the figure was over €23,000. Drousiotis states the funds will support his legal defense, forensic examinations, and related judicial expenses, with promises of financial transparency and audits.

Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou has intervened, announcing that he has instructed the police to investigate whether the campaign violates the Law on Conducting Appeals. The minister argues that such public solicitations require prior approval from the relevant Appeals Committee, suggesting that the current operation may be illegal. Conversely, some legal experts, such as Maria Christou Theristi, argue that the law applies specifically to charitable, religious, or environmental causes, potentially excluding personal legal defense funds from the statutory definition of an "appeal.

The investigation is currently ongoing as authorities review whether the campaign constitutes a criminal offense under the existing legislation. The incident has sparked a significant public debate on social media regarding the limits of online financial support and the applicability of the law to individual legal costs.