Cyprus Times

Political Storm in Cyprus Over Leaked Video Alleging Cash for Funding

Published January 9, 2026, 06:07
Political Storm in Cyprus Over Leaked Video Alleging Cash for Funding

A leaked video showing discussions about funding for the government has caused a political storm in Cyprus. The video features former Minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis, the Director of the President's Office, Charalambos Charalambous, and businessmen discussing ways to provide funding in cash. Lakkotrypis has filed a complaint with the police and will provide a written statement in the coming days. The police are requesting further information about the video, while the government is investigating the possibility of a “hybrid activity” aimed at harming the country and the President. Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that the Attorney General and the Chief of Police have been informed. Lakkotrypis claims that his statements in the video have been edited to distort the context of the discussions. The leak of the video occurred shortly after the start of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. The case has put pressure on parties to provide answers and has put the Presidential Palace on alert, as the transparency of funding is being questioned.