Statement by AKEL MP A. Pasiourtides on the 5th evaluation round of the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) of the Council of Europe

 

 

 

3 October 2023

The Commission’s report is a very useful tool, which AKEL will study and evaluate with due seriousness. Where and when legislation is required, we shall contribute by submitting our own positions and proposals for our country’s compliance with the respective recommendations made.

Nevertheless, we cannot but comment on the findings which are pointed out quite clearly in the report.

Corruption is a serious problem in Cyprus with 94% of citizens believing that corruption is widespread in our country. This perception has grown and been strengthened, especially over the last 5 years, due to the way the Anastasiades-DISY Government implemented and handled the ‘golden passports’ programme.

The approval of key anti-corruption legislation such as the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Authority, the legislation on the protection of whistleblowers and the law to regulate lobbying is a step in the right direction. However, their effectiveness is threatened by institutional deficiencies, including the proliferation of commissions with little coordination between them, the lack of adequate resources, expertise and authority, as well as the lack of independence and effective cooperation and mechanisms for exercising checks and scrutiny. These are elements that we need to improve and strengthen.

There is also a problem with the Ethics Charter that Ministers – but not the President – sign upon their appointment, which according to GRECO is more a statement of principles than a full ethics system to comply with, which does not entail any consequences in case of violations.

Furthermore, the issue of conflict of interest, in relation to revolving doors (switching to the private sector), is a specific challenge that needs to be addressed given that until very recently, it was limited to a list of incompatibilities.

Particular mention is made regarding the need for transparency in relation to the appointment of advisers/counsellors to the President of the Republic and Ministers, which reinforces the view that legislation is imperative regarding the criteria for their appointment, as well as their duties and working conditions.

Transparency, accountability and effectiveness need to be broadened to cover all persons with top executive duties, as well as asset disclosure, in particular to strengthen the respective oversight and enforcement mechanisms.

In addition, the level of trust in the Police is lower than that demonstrated in many other EU member states, a fact which demaqnds substantive improvements, as does the participation of women in the highest ranks of the Force.

In conclusion, the damage to the prestige and credibility of our country in recent years, with the gravest responsibilities falling on the Anastasiades-DISY Government, is such that much needs to be done so that the image of Cyprus both at home and abroad is consistent with the image of a country where the level of the rule of law meets the demands of its citizens.