Cyprus parliament updates benefits for former presidents

The Cypriot House of Representatives unanimously approved a unified bill regulating benefits for former Presidents of the Republic and Presidents of the House. The legislative proposals were submitted by Stavros Papadouris, Alexandra Attalides, and House Speaker Annita Demetriou, and finalized by the Committee on Institutions. Under the new law, a state vehicle will be provided to former officials for five years post-departure, while secretarial support remains available for life, strictly limited to duties related to their former office. The option to select a public servant for secretarial support has been abolished, though a direct allowance will continue to be paid to the beneficiary. These changes apply exclusively to individuals elected to these offices after the law enters into force. Several amendments were submitted by AKEL and MPs Irene Charalambidou and Alexandra Attalides, but only the AKEL amendment was adopted. House Speaker Annita Demetriou abstained from the vote citing a conflict of interest. While the legislation restricts future benefits, MP Irene Charalambidou expressed concerns that these provisions do not apply to currently serving officials.