Youth Organisation of Cyprus President Konstantina Achilleos framed the Yiannaki case handling as strictly procedural and legal, addressing public debate and concerns.
She acknowledged societal and media interest, stressing the organisation’s commitment to transparency while following established processes to avoid future legal issues.
The Board sought legal advice from the organisation’s counsel, who guides required steps. Achilleos confirmed all procedures completed or ongoing; current phase awaits court records finalisation.
The lawyer received records to issue an opinion assessing if the conviction involves moral turpitude or lack of integrity, informing next actions.
Achilleos addressed criticism that conviction should trigger immediate removal: a clean criminal record lapses post-conviction, but this alone does not mandate dismissal.
She recognised this may seem obvious to citizens and taxpayers, yet the organisation must act strictly per law to function correctly and prevent issues.
The non-legal Board relies on counsel’s precise guidance at each stage, ensuring all decisions withstand legal scrutiny.
On pay, she clarified firmly: 50% of salary stopped from the decision date. She admitted the contrast, pay halted but employment continues, stems from legal requirements.
If law changes needed, that falls to lawmakers; the organisation applies current rules. No specific internal regulation governs; general public service law applies.
Awaiting final legal advice
Achilleos awaits counsel’s final position on next steps, reiterating pay withholding post-conviction. She reminded the Youth Organisation’s broad impactful work for youth extends beyond this case.
Also read: Yiannaki sentence: former commissioner jailed for three years
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