Cypriot parliament speaker quits in wake of cash-for-passports controversy

·

The speaker of Cyprus’ parliament resigned on Thursday in the wake of a cash-for-passports scandal which has embarrassed authorities in the EU member state.

Demetris Syllouris is the second highest-ranking state official of Cyprus, and was deputizing as acting president in the absence of President Nicos Anastasiades.

Syllouris, 67, was secretly filmed by the Al Jazeera network talking to an undercover reporter posing as a representative of a Chinese businessman with a criminal record. Syllouris is shown promising to facilitate the businessman’s passport application.

A lawmaker for 28 years and speaker since 2011, Syllouris has denied any wrongdoing, saying any comments were taken out of context.

“I firmly believe that in no way have I broken the law,” Syllouris said in a statement. In the documentary, he is filmed discussing with a fixer – the undercover reporter – ways and workarounds for the supposed Chinese investor to acquire a passport. The imaginary investor had a criminal record, which in itself should have disqualified an applicant.

The documentary was aired on October 12, triggering public outrage and forcing authorities to suspend a lucrative citizenship for investment program.

Sourced By: Reuters

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Andrew Caramanis: The Sydney student on a mission to preserve the Greek language

For Andrew Caramanis, the Greek language is more than just words – it’s a connection to his roots and a passion that shapes his identity.

Mavromoustakos brothers’ charity football match raises over $4,000 for African kids

The Mavromoustakos brothers' Charity Football Match made a triumphant return in 2025, once again uniting the community for a great cause.

Hundreds enjoy classic cars and Greek delights at Liverpool’s Summer Paniyiri

The Summer Paniyiri Car Show in Liverpool was a spectacular celebration of Greek culture, community spirit, and classic cars.

Experience the spirit of Epirus at the Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW’s Annual Dance

The Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW is set to hold an unforgettable evening of music, dance and culture at its highly anticipated Annual Dance.

Roma Siachos resigns as President of the Hellenic Writers’ Association of Australia

Roma Siachos has resigned as President of the Hellenic Writers' Association of Australia, citing family and personal reasons.

You May Also Like

In Photos: Pancretan Association of Melbourne welcomes Evzones with dinner event

With some lyra and traditional delicacies, the Pancretan Association of Melbourne welcomed the Evzones to the Cretan Village on Tuesday.

Haris Strangas: The young Australian of Greek heritage running in the NSW local elections

Haris Strangas is a young Australian of Greek heritage running in the NSW local government elections on December 4 this year.

Remembering Designer of the Mini Cooper, Alec Issigonis

Alexandros Issigonis is widely noted for the development of the mini, which was later voted the second most influential car of the 20th century in 1999.