The Republic of Cyprus is stepping up its anti-corruption initiatives, focusing on enhancing transparency, meritocracy, and accountability, according to Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis. Speaking at an event organized by the Independent Authority Against Corruption (IAAC) for International Anti-Corruption Day, Hartsiotis emphasized that combating corruption is a primary goal of the government.
“Our responsibility is to our country, citizens, and the younger generation, whose trust we must rebuild. This trust will come not from lofty words but through meaningful actions,” Hartsiotis stated. He also highlighted that safeguarding Cyprus’s reputation is central to the administration’s agenda.
To demonstrate its commitment, the government has significantly increased resources for anti-corruption efforts, including a 72% boost to the IAAC’s 2024 budget compared to last year. Hartsiotis noted that the establishment of the IAAC and key legislation on transparency and whistleblower protections marked 2022 as a milestone year in the country’s anti-corruption campaign.
Progress and Challenges at the IAAC
Since its inception, the IAAC has received 330 complaints, of which 25% were submitted anonymously. Transparency Commissioner Harris Pogiatzis reported that 12 investigations are currently underway, with results expected soon. However, over 90% of complaints were dismissed early due to insufficient evidence or jurisdiction issues.
Pogiatzis attributed this high dismissal rate to public misunderstandings about what qualifies as corruption. He clarified that corruption typically involves bribery, illicit enrichment, extortion, and abuse of power or trust. Cases must involve individuals linked to the public sector to fall within the IAAC’s jurisdiction.
“We do not mediate disputes between private individuals. A significant number of complaints are dismissed because they fall outside our authority,” Pogiatzis explained. He revealed that nearly all complaints have centered on abuse of power.
Ensuring Fair Investigations and Independence
Pogiatzis assured that every complaint, whether named or anonymous, is thoroughly investigated. Named complainants receive direct updates, while anonymous cases have updates posted on the IAAC’s website without identifying details. He stressed that the IAAC does not target individuals and operates under strict confidentiality laws.
Reaffirming the IAAC’s independence, Pogiatzis stated, “There has been no external interference, political or otherwise, in the Authority’s work. Its autonomy is absolute.”
The IAAC plans to issue public statements at the conclusion of investigations, summarizing outcomes without naming individuals suspected of wrongdoing.
Source: Stockwatch Cyprus