Former President files €2M defamation lawsuit against author (update)

Former President Nicos Anastasiades has taken legal action against Makarios Drushiotis, alleging defamation stemming from claims made in the books "Mafia State" and "The Gang."

According to a statement issued on April 23, 2024, Anastasiades, represented by lawyers Georgios Triantafyllidis and Theodoros Economou, filed a lawsuit at the Nicosia District Court. The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding €2,000,000 for what Anastasiades contends are malicious, false, and defamatory allegations contained in the books authored by Drousiotis. Additionally, Anastasiades is seeking a court order to prevent Drushiotis from repeating or republishing the alleged defamatory claims.

The legal action also cites an article dated 5/9/2013, in which Anastasiades claims Drousiotis repeated the same malicious and unsubstantiated allegations. In addition to damages and an injunction against Drousiotis, the lawsuit requests any other remedies deemed appropriate by the court, as well as reimbursement for legal costs.

Meanwhile, Makarios Drousiotis staunchly rebuffed former President Anastasiades' demand in a follow-up statement, denouncing them as an attempt at psychological coercion.

Responding to Anastasiades' request for a ban on his books, "The Gang" and "Mafia State," along with a staggering compensation demand, Drousiotis labeled it a diversionary tactic amidst his ongoing testimony before the Anti-Corruption Authority.

Highlighting the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Authority by Anastasiades himself, Drousiotis emphasized the Authority's acknowledgment of the serious allegations outlined in his books. He referenced Chairman Poyatzis's statements, appointed by Anastasiades, affirming the need for a comprehensive investigation, which has already seen extensive depositions totaling eighteen hours. Characterizing Anastasiades' legal action as panic-induced intimidation, Drousiotis vowed to stand firm against any attempts at coercion.

Asserting his unwavering commitment to truth and justice, Drousiotis declared his intent to resume testimony before the Anti-Corruption Authority, dismissing Anastasiades' legal maneuvers as futile attempts to undermine his resolve. Prepared to confront Anastasiades in both the court of public opinion and the judicial system, Drousiotis underscored his determination to uphold integrity and transparency throughout the investigative process.