19.01.2024
The Nicosia Criminal Court continues to investigate the case of the so-called “golden passports”, which caused widespread public outcry in Cyprus. The third defendant in this case, Antonis Antoniou , senior employee of Giovanis Group , at its latest hearing on Thursday, pleaded not guilty to charges related to the findings of the Nikolatos report on gold passports.
The scandal surrounding the “golden passport” program received widespread publicity after the publication of an investigation by Al Jazeera, which documented offers of Cypriot citizenship by investment from high-ranking officials, including former President of the House of Representatives Demetris Syllouris and former Akel MP Christakis Giovanis , a Chinese actor posing as an investor.
At the latest hearings, in addition to Antoniou , Syllouris and Giovanis also pleaded not guilty to the charges. During the meeting it became known about the appointment of a new public prosecutor, Charis Karaolida , which will provide additional time to prepare for the next hearing, scheduled for February 15.
The defense seeks to obtain additional materials to ensure the defense of its clients. Antoniou’s lawyer , Andreas Pittadjis , who had himself previously been investigated in the same case, asked the prosecutor general for witness statements and additional documents, including a letter from the Minister of the Interior. In response, the prosecution expressed a positive attitude towards the exchange of certain documents, which will be discussed at subsequent hearings.
Testimony is expected to begin on June 10, with 32 people scheduled to be questioned. Given the amount of work ahead, the trial could drag on, perhaps even into July, with witnesses testifying almost daily.
The “golden passports” case continues to be the focus of public and law enforcement attention in Cyprus, demonstrating the authorities’ determination to fight corruption and restore confidence in the national investment program.
