Gabrielle McIntyre, an international legal expert, has been tasked with leading an independent investigation into corruption claims leveled against former Cypriot president Nicos Anastasiades, as detailed in the controversial book “Mafia State” by Makarios Drousiotis. McIntyre, whose appointment was announced on Monday, will be joined by three Cypriot lawyers—Charilaos Chrysanthou, Orestis Nikitas, and Andreas Efthymiou—to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry without any conflict of interest, the anti-corruption authority stated on Tuesday.
The investigation team is set to delve into allegations that have cast a shadow over Anastasiades’ tenure. The anti-corruption authority, formed eighteen months ago, has already initiated the probe and is committed to addressing corruption cases involving state officials. McIntyre, who is well-versed in international law and has previously chaired the Seychelles’ Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission, is scheduled to arrive in Cyprus on March 3 to advance the investigation process.
Anastasiades has openly welcomed McIntyre’s appointment and has emphasized the importance of transparency by asserting that the findings of the investigation must be made public. The former president’s stance comes amid reports that his legal representatives have sought the withdrawal of Drousiotis’ book and demanded an apology and damages from the author.
The anti-corruption authority has affirmed its dedication to maintaining confidentiality throughout the investigative process and will not disclose any details until its conclusion. With a legal expert like McIntyre at the helm, supported by lawyers Chrysanthou, Nikitas, and Efthymiou, the investigation is expected to be conducted with the highest level of legal scrutiny.
