Cyfield in the spotlight as trouble brews over Nicosia's mega projects

A storm is brewing over a major project in Nicosia, as delays and ballooning costs spark concerns about fairness and oversight in public contracts, according to a report by Apostolos Tomaras in this Sunday's printed edition of Kathimerini.

Dubbed 'national contractors', favored companies are under scrutiny for their role in snagging lucrative government deals. The spotlight falls on Cyfield, the current lead player, formerly known as Nemesis, embroiled in the SAPA scandal for alleged bribery.

Despite past controversies, Cyfield continues to clinch major projects, including key roads in Nicosia and Limassol, but not without facing criticism for significant delays, some stretching beyond 50% of planned timelines.

The SAPA scandal looms large, casting doubt on the integrity of companies with tainted histories. Despite government efforts to blacklist such firms, they seem to resurface under different guises, raising questions about accountability.

Criticism also targets oversight bodies, with the Council for Registration and Control of Building and Technical Contractors facing backlash for failing to discipline implicated firms. Similarly, the Public Works Department's opacity regarding contract details has drawn ire.

With Cyprus investing heavily in public projects, ensuring transparency and accountability is paramount. The current turmoil underscores the need for tighter controls and greater transparency in the management of public contracts.