Dialogos

AKEL Proposes Strict Control of Former State Officials in the Private Sector

Published March 11, 2026, 17:01
AKEL Proposes Strict Control of Former State Officials in the Private Sector

The Parliamentary Committee on Institutions discussed a bill proposed by AKEL to strengthen the control of former state officials taking up employment in the private sector. The proposal provides for a ban on taking on the duties of a consultant or shareholder in companies for two years after leaving public office, without permission. The Attorney General, Gianna Chatzichanna, supported the expansion of the definition of officials covered by the law and proposed a requirement for employers to declare any changes in duties that may affect conflicts of interest. The discussion focused on the issue of responsibility, both of the former official and the employer, in case of violation of the legislation. Ms. Chatzichanna proposed that the employer should be obliged to declare any material change of duties, so that there are consequences in case of false declaration. AKEL MP Andreas Passiourtidis expressed concern about how the employer can know the restrictions and proposed that the Committee on Incompatibility be informed in case of a change of duties. The PASYDY MP, Irene Giorka, expressed concern about the detection of illegality in cases of cooperation between a former official and an employer to conceal information. She stressed the need to examine the control procedures established by law. The discussion highlighted the difficulties in the effective implementation of the law and the need for clear and strict rules. Overall, AKEL's bill aims to strengthen transparency and accountability of former state officials in order to avoid conflicts of interest and corruption. The discussion in the Committee on Institutions is expected to continue, with the aim of finalizing a bill that will ensure the effective protection of the public interest.