Newsroom
The Audit Office has raised concerns that state officials may have shown serious negligence in allowing a private birthday party for a high-profile businessman to take place in one of Paphos’ most environmentally sensitive areas.
According to the Audit Office, the party featured a stage with spotlights and loudspeakers set up in a location that posed significant environmental risks. Officials reportedly knew in advance about the planned event and the potential dangers, yet no immediate measures were taken to stop it, even though there was ample time to act.
The Audit Office also questioned attempts to link the party to the annual Carob Festival, saying the connection “creates the impression of deliberate misinformation of the public.” The stage and sound equipment were installed in a completely different area than the festival, apparently without the necessary permits.
In a statement, the Audit Office said it disagreed with claims by the Environment Department that it lacked legal authority to intervene beforehand, calling such claims “misleading” and emphasizing that EU environmental law prioritizes precaution and prevention over post-fact enforcement.
Based on initial findings, the Audit Office said there are reasonable suspicions of “serious negligence” by state officials potentially serving private interests. A letter has already been sent to the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, and further investigations will determine whether the matter will be referred to other competent authorities.
