A team of independent criminal investigators is expected to be appointed at Wednesday’s scheduled meeting of the Council of Ministers to examine the findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority’s report on Mafia State.
Intensive consultations over recent days with legal experts shortlisted under agreed criteria have reportedly produced results, with the names of the investigators expected to be announced tomorrow, barring any last-minute developments.
According to information obtained by Politis, the investigative team will consist of at least five members, one of whom will be appointed to lead the process. Once appointed, the team will assess the Anti-Corruption Authority’s findings before determining the procedure to be followed in the criminal investigation.
No information has been disclosed by the Presidential Palace regarding the identities of the investigators. The aim, it is said, is to safeguard the integrity of a process that carries significant sensitivities, particularly because of the individuals under investigation and the public offices they previously held.
As for reports published yesterday by Phileleftheros regarding the participation of a Greek legal expert, the information appears to be accurate, with the individual expected to be among the members of the investigative team. Cypriot lawyers are also expected to participate.
Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis had effectively foreshadowed developments regarding the appointment. Asked by CNA when criminal investigators would be named to examine the findings contained in the Anti-Corruption Authority’s report and the final report prepared by inspection officials in relation to the book Mafia State, Letymbiotis said the government’s aim was to make an announcement “as soon as possible.”
Following the recusal of the Attorney-General and Deputy Attorney-General, the Prosecution Council forwarded the entire Anti-Corruption Authority report to both the police and the Council of Ministers.
The extensive report, which runs to around 3,000 pages, together with witness statements and other material gathered during the investigation by officials appointed by the Authority, will be placed before the investigative team immediately after its appointment.
With the stated goal of completing the criminal investigation as quickly as possible, the appointment decision is also expected to set a timeframe for the completion of the probe.
It is also expected to clarify whether an independent public prosecutor will be appointed specifically for this case.
