Ministry requests details
The Cyprus Interior Ministry has requested information regarding allegations made by DIKO leader Nikolas Papadopoulos, who publicly accused certain candidates of Fidias’ Amesi Dimokratia of committing crimes.
A ministry spokesperson explained: “We requested evidence to determine whether any offences fall under Article 64 of the Constitution.” Candidate vetting occurs if a formal objection is submitted after the official nomination period opens on May 6. Objections are reviewed by the election officer of each district, with support from the Law Office.
Allegations from Nikolas Papadopoulos
Papadopoulos claims the Amesi Dimokratia slate includes: a candidate arrested for drug trafficking in the occupied areas, an individual investigated for obtaining money under false pretences, and another who allegedly defrauded hundreds of investors during the stock market period.
Amesi Dimokratia responds
Amesi Dimokratia’s presidential candidate, Antis Varosiotis, countered the allegations. He highlighted that former DIKO ministers have faced legal consequences, citing examples such as Michailidis and figures involved in the “Video Gate” scandal. Varosiotis stressed that candidates with disciplinary or criminal records should not appear on party lists.
He also noted organizational gaps within Amesi Dimokratia that hindered proper vetting of candidates before public announcements.
Broader political debate
Papadopoulos’ statements question the movement’s “new ethics,” asking whether individuals with alleged past offences should participate in decisions affecting the country’s future. The Interior Ministry will continue its review ahead of the official candidate submission and any resulting objections.
Also read: Fidias Panayiotou refuses to suspend Agora app
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
