**Title: Ex-Akel Chief Accuses Former President Anastasiades of Pursuing Personal Gain and Favoring Two-State Solution**
Former secretary-general of the left-wing political party Akel, Andros Kyprianou, has made serious allegations against former President Nicos Anastasiades, claiming that he favored a two-state solution to the Cyprus problem and sought substantial personal financial gain during his presidency. These assertions were made during an interview with CyBC, where Kyprianou discussed his recently published book, *Through the Intricacies of the Cyprus Problem*.
In his interview, Kyprianou revealed that he decided to disclose certain conversations and incidents that he believes can be corroborated by others familiar with the events. Among the most notable claims are those involving former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and the late Socrates Hasikos, who served as interior minister under Anastasiades.
Kyprianou alleged that Tsipras informed him that Anastasiades had gained personal financial benefits amounting to “tens of millions of euros” during his first term in office. He further claimed that Anastasiades entered his second term with the intention of seeking even greater financial advantages. Kyprianou expressed his readiness to identify the individuals involved in these discussions, asserting that other witnesses could confirm the details he provided.
Additionally, Kyprianou revisited discussions he had with Hasikos regarding Anastasiades' stance on the Cyprus issue. He recounted a private meeting with Hasikos, during which the former minister expressed concerns about various governmental developments. According to Kyprianou, Hasikos indicated that Anastasiades believed a two-state arrangement was the most viable solution to the Cyprus problem prior to the 2018 presidential election. Initially, Kyprianou did not consider this assertion significant; however, he later became convinced that Anastasiades was indeed leaning towards this political direction.
In light of these allegations, the government has announced plans to appoint an independent criminal investigator to examine findings from the anti-corruption authority regarding Anastasiades. Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that the cabinet intends to appoint “an independent criminal investigator or investigators” to assist in reviewing the allegations outlined in a report that reportedly suggests the former president may bear criminal liability for abuse of power.
This decision follows the recusal of Attorney-General George Savvides and his deputy Savvas Angelides from any involvement in the case, ensuring that the investigation remains impartial. The appointment of the independent investigator is expected to take place once the anti-corruption authority submits its full report to the legal service.
Kyprianou's allegations and the subsequent government response have stirred significant political discourse in Cyprus, as they raise questions about the integrity of past leadership and the ongoing resolution of the Cyprus problem. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these claims will impact the political landscape and public perception of the former president.