Author to Testify in High-Profile Corruption Inquiry
In a significant development in the ongoing corruption investigation, author Makarios Drousiotis is scheduled to testify on Tuesday regarding his allegations against former president Nicos Anastasiades. These claims are detailed in Drousiotis’ book titled ‘Mafia State’, which has sparked widespread attention and scrutiny.
Drousiotis has been summoned by the anti-corruption authority’s investigators, who are delving into the accusations presented in his publication. The investigative team comprises an international legal expert, Gabrielle Louise McIntyre, and three Cypriot lawyers: Charilaos Chrysanthou, Orestis Nikitas, and Andreas Efthymiou. McIntyre has been on the island since March 25 to further probe into the matter.
Her initial visit earlier in March was dedicated to collaborating with her colleagues over a six-day period to meticulously prepare for their investigative work. The team has been granted a broad remit in their inquiry, as outlined by their official mandate.
In preparation for the investigation, the anti-corruption authority meticulously reviewed Drousiotis’ book, organizing the content into chapters and subchapters to highlight each incident of alleged corruption.
Anastasiades has openly expressed his support for McIntyre’s appointment to the case. He has criticized Drousiotis for what he perceives as intentional misrepresentations and inconsistencies within the text. Anastasiades confidently anticipates that the forthcoming evidence will systematically disprove the accusations made against him.
Conversely, Drousiotis has claimed that he faced intimidation from Anastasiades’ legal team, alleging they demanded the withdrawal of his books and an apology. He took to social media to declare his refusal of these requests, standing firm on the content of his work.
The testimony of Drousiotis is highly anticipated as it may shed further light on the allegations that have stirred significant controversy and debate within political and legal circles.