The adoption of the bills for the Independent Authority against Corruption and transparency in public decision-making processes is welcomed by the Minister of Justice and Public Order, Stefi Drakou, noting that they ensure transparency.
In a written statement, Ms. Drakou states that on Thursday "an important step was taken that paves the way for the restoration of the credibility of the institutions and the political system".
Ms. Drakou points out that the foundations have been laid for the "first institutional shielding of the state and society against corruption, with a strong legal framework."
In a statement, the Minister of Justice described the passage of the two bills in conjunction with the bill on the protection of whistleblowers, which has already been passed as "a good start that makes us optimistic". In addition, he notes that these bills achieve transparency.
"Our country is now included in the list of the few European countries that have acquired a modern and comprehensive anti-corruption legal framework, which is in line with the requirements of the European Union and the Council of Europe," said Ms. Drakou.
In addition, he states that the bills are tools for the prevention, identification and treatment of corruption.
The Minister of Justice notes that the Independent Authority has all the necessary powers to successfully carry out its important work, does not belong to any other state service and does not accept orders and instructions from any official. It has its own budget and determines its own needs, she adds.
He goes on to say that "an advisory council is being set up by a former judge of the Supreme Court, the President of the Cyprus Academy of Letters and Arts, the President of the Synod of Rectors, the President of the PDS and the President of SELK. He compiles a list proposing 3 people in each position, after informing and discussing with the Parliamentary Committee on Legal Affairs ".
The list, as explained in the statement, is submitted to the President of the Republic to appoint the Commissioner and the members of the Authority. Members may not resign except through the same procedure as for dismissal of judges of the Supreme Court.
Ms. Drakou emphasizes the ability of the Independent Authority "to examine and evaluate information from citizens about possible acts of corruption, which are now protected by the bill that was passed on 20/01".
The Authority will be able to request information from any person or service, to have access to documents and to receive testimonies, it is noted. "Refusal or false provision of information to the Authority will be a criminal offense and will result in imprisonment," said the Minister of Justice.
He adds that the third bill ensures transparency in decision-making processes in the public and wider public sector. In fact, it states that "officials and public sector officials must inform the Authority of all meetings they have with persons wishing to be involved in the decision-making process, which will be recorded in a register kept by the Authority, for purposes transparency ".
All three bills that constitute the legislative framework are the fruit of a collective effort and dialogue that took place in an atmosphere of consensus and goodwill. "Parliament justified its role by putting unity, responsibility and response to society above its differences," said Ms Drakou.
In her statement, the Minister of Justice thanked the Parliamentary Committees on Legal Affairs and Institutions, the Attorney General and the Assistant Attorney General, the Pancyprian Bar Association and all the bodies involved that contributed to the drafting of the bills.