Newsroom / CNA
Transparency Commissioner Harris Pogiatzis revealed that around 12 investigations by the Independent Authority Against Corruption are currently in progress, with results expected to be announced soon. Speaking at an event organized by the IIndependent Authority Against Corruption on Friday, in honor of International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9th, Pogiatzis addressed the topic: “Complaints Submitted to the Independent Authority Against Corruption and How They Are Investigated.”
Since the Authority's establishment in 2022, approximately 330 complaints have been filed, with one-quarter submitted anonymously. Of these, around 100 complaints have undergone preliminary examination but were dismissed due to either insufficient evidence or lack of jurisdiction. Pogiatzis noted that over 90% of complaints are rejected during the initial evaluation, largely because many citizens misunderstand what constitutes a corruption offense. However, the remaining cases proceed to a detailed investigation by inspection officials, with 12 investigations currently active.
Pogiatzis reassured the public that every complaint—whether named or anonymous—receives thorough examination and justified conclusions. For named complaints, feedback is directly provided to the complainants, while the outcomes of anonymous submissions are published on the Authority’s website without revealing personal details. He emphasized the Authority’s commitment to confidentiality, citing Section 18 of the governing legislation, which strictly prohibits unauthorized disclosure of information. Only the Transparency Commissioner can authorize such disclosures.
Addressing concerns about impartiality, Pogiatzis stressed that there has been no interference, political or otherwise, in the Authority’s work, affirming its independence. He added that after complaints are filed, the Authority issues public notices while withholding the identities of individuals under investigation.
Reflecting on the Authority’s early days, Pogiatzis acknowledged the heightened public expectations due to widespread frustration with corruption. He highlighted international scandals, such as the "golden passport" controversy and the Al Jazeera exposé, which had tarnished Cyprus’s reputation and fueled societal anger. Despite being under considerable pressure, the Authority chose to accept complaints even before formal procedures were fully established. In its inaugural year, 24 complaints were submitted prior to the commencement of official reviews.
Delays in processing complaints have been attributed to a combination of high volumes and understaffing. Until February 2024, only one officer was assigned to handle complaints. However, a specialized team was subsequently assembled through the service market framework, enabling the Authority to process complaints at an accelerated pace. Pogiatzis expressed optimism that the backlog would be resolved by the summer of 2025.
Pogiatzis clarified that corruption offenses typically involve bribery, improper financial advantage, usury, abuse of power, or breach of trust. Importantly, for the Authority to have jurisdiction, the offenses must involve public or wider public sector figures or interactions between private individuals and public sector entities. Complaints involving solely private parties fall outside the Authority's purview, accounting for the high dismissal rate during preliminary examinations.
Despite 330 complaints being filed, Pogiatzis noted that only one confirmed case of abuse of power has emerged. He highlighted the limited legal precedents in Cyprus regarding abuse of power, often necessitating reliance on foreign legislation.
While the Authority provides indicative complaint forms on its website, a simple letter with basic details is sufficient for submission. Investigations are conducted by private experts from various fields, including law, accounting, and economics, who undergo a rigorous vetting process to ensure their suitability and avoid conflicts of interest. Over 150 individuals, predominantly lawyers, have expressed interest in serving as inspection officers.
Hearings resemble court proceedings but are closed to the public. Witnesses may appear with legal representation and are entitled to refrain from answering self-incriminating questions. Pogiatzis reported full compliance with summonses, except for two individuals who refused to answer questions, which constitutes a criminal offense under the Authority's mandate.
Upon completing their investigations, inspection officers submit detailed reports to the Authority. If evidence of criminal liability is identified, the case is forwarded to the Attorney General, accompanied by all relevant documentation.
