Controversy over the purchase of a new presidential limousine in Cyprus

The Cypriot Ministry of Finance has requested that the Parliamentary Finance Committee release €595,000 for the acquisition of a new armored presidential limousine. The procurement, which involves direct negotiation rather than a public tender, was approved by the Cabinet on July 16, 2026. The vehicle is intended to serve the security needs of President Nikos Christodoulides and to facilitate the transport of visiting heads of state.

Following the leak of the confidential request to the press, President Christodoulides initially denied knowledge of the purchase, sparking political tension and accusations of a lack of transparency. The administration later clarified that the President was aware of the government's intention to procure the vehicle but had not been informed of the specific technical and security specifications. Deputy Government Spokesman Giannis Antoniou subsequently characterized the President's initial statement as a "misphrasing.

The Electromechanical Services Department confirmed the need for the upgrade based on the condition of current assets and international security standards. The parliamentary committee is scheduled to discuss the funding request on Monday. If approved, the delivery of the specialized, high-security vehicle is expected to take up to 12 months.