**Akel Calls for Resignation of Attorney-General and Deputy Amid Corruption Allegations**
The political landscape in Cyprus has intensified as the opposition party Akel has demanded the immediate resignation of Attorney-General George Savvides and his deputy Savvas Angelides. This call comes in light of their recent decision to recuse themselves from involvement in a case related to findings from the Anti-Corruption Authority.
In a statement released on Thursday, Akel’s Secretary-General Stefanos Stefanou expressed strong concerns regarding the integrity of the ongoing investigation. He emphasized that the findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority represent a significant test for the nation’s institutions. Stefanou warned that any failure to pursue accountability could further erode public trust in the government and its officials.
Stefanou stated, “Savvides and Angelides should have gone home yesterday,” arguing that their continued presence in their respective positions compromises the potential for an impartial investigation. He pointed out that under the constitution, any criminal investigation stemming from the authority’s findings would ultimately fall under the jurisdiction of the Attorney-General's office, raising concerns about possible conflicts of interest.
The party's statement also criticized the relationship between the Attorney-General and former President Nicos Anastasiades. Akel described it as “an insult to the public’s intelligence” to suggest that Savvides and Angelides could impartially oversee an investigation involving Anastasiades, whom they referred to as the “political mentor” of current President Nikos Christodoulides.
The demand for resignation follows the announcement by Savvides and Angelides that they would step back from evaluating or making decisions regarding the Anti-Corruption Authority’s report. Savvides cited his personal friendship with Anastasiades as a reason for his recusal, asserting that it was necessary to ensure “objective impartiality.” Angelides echoed this sentiment, stating he would also refrain from involvement in the case.
Akel's criticism extended beyond Savvides and Angelides, targeting the ruling Democratic Rally party (Disy) and President Christodoulides. The party accused Disy of shielding Anastasiades from scrutiny, urging Christodoulides to acknowledge the implications of the findings, which pertain to a government of which he was a significant part.
Currently, the findings from the Anti-Corruption Authority are under review by the law office of the Republic. In response to the situation, the government has announced plans to appoint an independent investigator to delve deeper into the case, a move that aims to address public concerns regarding transparency and accountability.
As the political tension escalates, the actions and decisions taken by the government and its officials in the coming days will be closely monitored, with many citizens and political observers awaiting further developments in this critical issue for Cyprus.