Ministry of Interior audit on Turkish Cypriot property management in Paphos

The Cypriot Ministry of Interior has conducted an investigation into the management of Turkish Cypriot properties within the Paphos municipality. Giannos Sofokleous, a senior official at the ministry, stated that audits focused on approximately 110 lease agreements to evaluate compliance and procedural legality. While the ministry acknowledged irregularities and gaps in the institutional framework, Sofokleous maintained that no criminal liability was identified at this stage. Conversely, media reports citing a recent internal ministry report suggest systemic administrative failures, potential bias, and violations of fair treatment principles occurring over the past decade under Mayor Phedonas Phedonatos. The investigation examined whether decisions served the public interest and adhered to administrative law. Reports indicate that these findings were recently submitted to the Minister of Interior. Furthermore, the Cyprus Police have conducted a separate investigation into potential criminal responsibilities regarding the broader management of Turkish Cypriot properties. The ministry noted that conflicts of interest were a historical issue within the system beyond just the Paphos municipality.