Former President Nicos Anastasiades has held a press conference, accompanied by his two legal advisers, responding to allegations attributed to him in the report related to the book “Mafia State”.
He addressed each chapter of the book by author Makarios Drousiotis, outlining his own version of events and rejecting the claims made.
Anastasiades did not mention the journalist by name, instead referring to him as an “inventor of fiction and Sandy” and a “writer”.
Call for protection of rule of law
He said the time had come to decide whether the country wants to protect the rule of law or take measures against those who undermine it through what he described as fabricated narratives.
“Anastasiades said the issue is whether we want a rule of law or a rule of the internet,” he stated.
He added that he does not attribute bad faith to the Anti-Corruption Authority, but rather a lack of courage and resistance to populism.
Call for independent investigation
The former president called for the immediate appointment of an independent criminal investigator or prosecutor of recognised standing to examine the case and reach conclusions quickly.
He insisted that the truth must be established and the investigation completed without delay.
Rejection of specific allegations
During his statements, Anastasiades rejected claims relating to alleged misconduct, describing them as unfounded and defamatory.
He also questioned whether proper procedures were followed in the investigation process and argued that he was not given the opportunity to be heard in certain aspects of the findings.
Broader political and legal debate
Anastasiades further raised concerns about how allegations of abuse of power and political influence were being interpreted, arguing that decisions taken by previous governments were being misrepresented.
The press conference forms part of an ongoing political and legal debate in Cyprus following the publication of the “State Mafia” related findings and the wider corruption investigation.
Also read: Report on “Mafia State” submitted to police and Cabinet for criminal investigation
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