By Charlie Charalambous
WHISTLEBLOWER Christos Pourgourides said yesterday he would snub a special investigation into allegations of corruption against Interior Minister Dinos Michaelides.
In a letter sent to the two government-appointed investigators – George Stavrianakis and Andreas Shiakas – the Disy deputy said he would not testify before them as he considered the whole procedure a sham.
“I cannot, for reasons of conscience, participate in a procedure which has been condemned not to reach the truth under the present climate,” said the Pourgourides letter, which was also released to the press.
Michaelides’ accuser sees no point in the supposedly independent probe, when President Clerides has refused to accept the minister’s resignation or even suspend him from duty.
“Statements made by the president on Sunday have indirectly sent the message that he considers Mr Michaelides innocent of any criminal responsibility, to be an upright politician and an honourable man,” the letter said.
Pourgourides, along with coalition partners United Democrats and Edek, has criticised as unconstitutional the Clerides decision to allow Michaelides to stay on as minister, but distance him from duties which are being investigated.
“Which Cypriot, civil servant or individual will have the courage to give evidence against a minister in office?” the Pourgourides letter asked the investigators, who started their probe yesterday.
According to legal sources, Michaelides cannot remain a minister and at the same time be restricted from carrying out his official duties.
Apparently, there is no constitutional framework that allows for such a situation.
It is also reported that, during last week’s emergency cabinet sessions to discuss the matter, some ministers urged Clerides to accept Michaelides’ resignation.
Foreign Minister Yiannakis Cassoulides failed to comment on these reports yesterday, but did say: “all that’s important is the decision by the president.”
As the row over whether Michaelides should stay or go rumbles on, the minister left for Athens yesterday on official business. No date has been given for his return.
Commenting on Pourgourides’ stance, the minister said before leaving yesterday: “everyone is entitled to their own opinion, even if they are mistaken.”
During his absence, Justice Minister Nicos Koshis will be acting Interior Minister.
Michaelides has suggested that all immigration affairs be handed over to another minister until the investigation is complete.
Stavrianakis and Shiakas are looking into allegations that Michaelides illegally issued work and residence permits to foreigners for cash.
The other specific allegation being probed is that the £96,000 sale of an entire apartment floor building was a form of money laundering that benefited the minister.
