Leaked Video Triggers Political Turmoil in Cyprus
A video circulating on social media has unsettled the political landscape in Cyprus after appearing to implicate President Nikos Christodoulides in discussions related to business and energy interests. Posted on X by the account Emily Thompson, the footage has raised questions about potential illicit payments.
The material includes conversations involving Charalambos Charalambous, Director of the President’s Office, former Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis, and Cyfield CEO Giorgos Chrysochos. The post presenting the video described it as exposing hidden financial channels linked to the presidency.
Local media report that the footage appears to have been recorded with a hidden camera during meetings with individuals posing as prospective investors seeking opportunities in Cyprus.
References to Campaign Financing Limits
Discussion captured in the recording touches on campaign funding practices and general limits placed on political financing. One excerpt features former Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis broadly noting that financing caps hover around EUR 1 million and that cash may sometimes play a role in exceeding those limits.
Another segment shows Charalambos Charalambous offering general comments about access to the Presidential Office in dealings with investors, using language that suggests informal communication.
Media reports indicate that the individuals appearing in the video are aware of its existence, and further actions or official complaints cannot be ruled out.
Government Labels Video Malicious and Edited
The Cypriot government describes the circulating footage as a targeted attempt to damage the president’s reputation at a sensitive political moment for the country. A written statement from government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis says initial assessments by state authorities deem the video malicious and manipulated.
According to the statement, the material relies on misleading assertions and unfounded conclusions that aim to undermine both the government and Cyprus internationally.
Authorities Examine Possible Hybrid Activity
A subsequent update from the government spokesperson notes that security services are now examining the possibility of hybrid activity directed against the Republic of Cyprus. Both the Attorney General and the Chief of Police have been informed of the developments.
Former Minister Files Complaint
Former Energy Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis has filed a complaint with the Nicosia Crime Investigation Department, stating that he intends to submit all evidence in his possession concerning the video. He maintains that the footage has been edited.
Political Leaders Demand Explanations
Prominent political figures have called for clarity regarding the footage and its allegations. Speaker of the House and DISY leader Annita Demetriou says she hopes the claims do not reflect reality and expects authorities to investigate promptly.
AKEL Secretary General Stefanos Stefanou states that the video raises significant institutional and political concerns requiring clear responses from the government, adding that his party will revisit the issue.
DIKO President Nikolas Papadopoulos emphasises that citizens deserve explanations about the claims made in the recording, particularly given the importance of transparency in public life.
