DIKO questions former Auditor General over Paphos landfill financial findings

The Democratic Party (DIKO), represented by Deputy President Christiana Erotokritou, has publicly questioned the conduct of former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides regarding his oversight of the Paphos waste management project (HYTA). The dispute arose after recent Audit Office findings revealed a financial deficit of approximately 400,000 euros at the Paphos landfill site. DIKO alleges that during his tenure, Michaelides failed to investigate the actions of former Paphos Mayor Phedon Phedonos, despite warnings from municipal councillors regarding potential misconduct. The party has suggested that a lack of oversight or an alleged covert cooperation between Michaelides and Phedonos may have occurred. In response, Michaelides dismissed the accusations as politically motivated ahead of upcoming elections. He clarified that in 2017, the Paphos landfill council, not the mayor, made the decision to terminate the contract with the company Helector following court evidence of bribery involving the previous mayor. Michaelides emphasized that his office has historically acted against corruption in the sector. DIKO has called upon the relevant authorities to launch an investigation into the matter.