Government denies allegations by Makarios Drousiotis regarding presidential hiring
Journalist and political candidate Makarios Drousiotis has publicly accused the Cypriot government of irregularities, specifically questioning the circumstances surrounding the employment of an individual known as "Santi" at the Presidential Palace following the election of Nikos Christodoulides. The government, through spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, has categorically denied these claims, stating that no such person has been employed at the Presidential Palace during the current administration. In response to Drousiotis's broader allegations regarding the rule of law and official misconduct, the Cabinet has decided to send evidence to Europol for forensic examination. Drousiotis has criticized this decision, arguing that a limited forensic analysis of digital messages without access to the original electronic devices is insufficient and constitutes a performative measure. He further claimed that authorities are operating under the bias that his allegations are false, citing concerns over procedural delays and alleged media leaks. Justice Minister Kostas Fytiris confirmed that results from the Europol investigation will be presented to the Cabinet for further action once completed.