In a landmark judicial case stemming from a 2020 Al Jazeera investigation that forced Cyprus to close its controversial “golden passport” programme, the Criminal Court in Nicosia on Tuesday (17/2) acquitted two senior politicians, Dimitris Syllouris and Christakis Giovanis, on corruption charges.
The decision sparked strong public reaction. Citizens expressed feelings of anger, betrayal, and frustration, reflected in recent opinion polls. Many believe corruption remains unchecked and political accountability is ineffective. Current President Nikos Christodoulides is at a low point in public approval, with nearly 40% of voters unable to identify a party that represents them.
Court decision and judicial dissent
The verdict was reached by a 2–1 majority. One judge found sufficient evidence for at least influence-trading charges. The acquittals are expected to be appealed. The majority judges criticised the handling of the investigation by Giorgos Savvides and Savvas Angelides, noting key witnesses were not called, leaving gaps exploited by defence lawyers.
Institutional weaknesses and public perception
The case highlights Cyprus’ challenges in prosecuting high-level corruption, as noted by the European Commission, which in 2024 called for stronger anti-corruption measures to maintain public trust. Political appointments to independent institutions, including the Attorney General’s office, have undermined impartiality, with past officeholders involved in the golden passport programme.
Implications on elections
Polls ahead of May legislative elections indicate widespread disillusionment. A SIGMA TV survey shows 85% of citizens believe the country is moving in the wrong direction on corruption, with over 70% dissatisfied with politicians overall and 72% critical of President Christodoulides’ handling of corruption. Similar results from the newspaper Politis show low approval of his domestic governance, though foreign policy remains his only relatively strong area.
The verdict is expected to influence electoral behaviour, potentially benefiting new political parties, while entrenched voter disillusionment may increase abstention rates, which historically favours major traditional parties.