Public debate sparked by the removal of Androulla Vassiliou's police escort

A public controversy erupted in Cyprus in September 2026 following statements by former First Lady and former EU Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou regarding the decision to terminate her state-provided police escort. Vassiliou expressed dissatisfaction with the move, arguing that it is not honorable for a former high-ranking official to struggle to find parking when attending official events, characterizing the lack of a driver as a significant practical challenge.

Media commentary and public response have largely criticized these remarks, labeling the expectation of lifelong VIP services for former officials as an entitlement that taxpayers should not fund. Critics argue that unless there is a verified security threat, state-funded police officers should not serve as personal drivers. The discourse has placed pressure on the Minister of Justice to finalize policies that end such practices, with many observers viewing the public backlash as a clear mandate from society to discontinue the use of police personnel for non-security related escort duties.