**Mafia State Findings to Be Announced on Tuesday**
The Cyprus Anti-Corruption Authority is set to release a significant announcement on Tuesday regarding its investigation into the allegations presented in the book "Mafia State," authored by investigative journalist Makarios Drousiotis. This book, first published in late 2022, has sparked considerable controversy by portraying Cyprus as a deeply corrupt state and implicating several high-profile figures, including former President Nicos Anastasiades.
While the authority has confirmed that it will not disclose the entire report, which is estimated to be around 3,000 pages long, it will provide a detailed summary of its key findings. Sources indicate that if the authority identifies any potential criminal offenses during its investigation, these will be explicitly mentioned in the announcement, along with the names of those involved.
The investigation, which commenced in early 2023 following a request from then-presidential candidate Andreas Mavroyiannis, involved extensive efforts from the authority's team. Over the course of the probe, investigators conducted approximately 200 sessions and interviewed around 150 individuals, gathering a total of 793 evidentiary items. Notably, former President Anastasiades was interviewed as a primary subject, and current President Nikos Christodoulides was also summoned as a witness.
Anastasiades has vehemently denied all allegations made against him in "Mafia State" and has initiated legal action against Drousiotis for defamation. He is expected to be briefed on the findings of the investigation before the public announcement is made.
The anti-corruption authority's findings could have significant implications, particularly if they lead to the identification of criminal offenses. In such a case, the report will be forwarded to the Attorney-General, Giorgos Savvides, who will determine whether to initiate prosecution. However, there are concerns regarding the impartiality of the Attorney-General and his deputy, Savvas Angelides, both of whom were appointed by Anastasiades. Criminologist Elias Stefanou has suggested that they should recuse themselves from any involvement in the case to ensure an unbiased process. He also raised concerns about the accountability of the remaining staff at the Attorney-General's office, advocating for independent criminal investigators to handle any potential criminal investigation.
The anti-corruption authority currently possesses the power to summon witnesses, and any individual who fails to comply may face criminal charges. However, the authority lacks direct criminal investigatory powers, a limitation that has previously been highlighted by political parties such as the Ecologists, who had proposed a bill to grant such powers. Although the Ecologists are no longer in parliament, the new party Alma has expressed similar intentions.
As the announcement approaches, the public and political observers are keenly awaiting the details of the findings, which could further impact the political landscape in Cyprus. The outcome of this investigation may not only affect the individuals implicated but also shape the future of anti-corruption efforts in the country.