Attorney-general George Savvides appointed former Supreme Court judge Andreas Paschalides, 79, as independent criminal investigator Tuesday into last week’s incendiary video alleging campaign finance lawbreaking by President Nikos Christodoulides and associates.
Paphos native Paschalides practiced law from 1973, became judge in 1988, Supreme Court justice 2009. He also served on independent police complaints commission.
Video alleges cash donation schemes
Video surfaced Thursday on X platform via “EmilyTanalyst”/”Emily Thompson” account showing Christodoulides’ then-chief of staff Charalambos Charalambous and ex-minister George Lakotrypis seemingly explaining cash donations circumventing election campaign finance laws.
Both appeared discussing continued oligarch donations, threatened by international sanctions lists, with Christodoulides defending/assisting EU sanction avoidance.
Cyfield CEO George Chrysochos allegedly admitted paying €250,000 yearly for government access. Video claimed social support body (First Lady-managed student aid fund) used by donors currying presidential favours.
Resignations follow video leak
First Lady Philippa Karsera Christodoulides resigned as Independent Social Support Body (ISSB) chairwoman. Charalambous quit chief of staff role.
Government repeatedly denied wrongdoing throughout unfolding scandal.
Also read: ISSB: Recommendation publishing donors over €20,000
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