Dialogos

Legal Service Restricts Parliament's Inquiry – Investigation into Donations to the Philippa Foundation at a Dead End

Published January 28, 2026, 07:01
Legal Service Restricts Parliament's Inquiry – Investigation into Donations to the Philippa Foundation at a Dead End

The Legal Service has blocked Parliament's inquiry into donations to the Social Support Fund, refusing to submit the names of donors and details of contributions after 2020. The decision is based on an opinion stating a lack of legal basis for disclosing the information and fear of exposing the Fund to penalties. The Parliament's Institutions Committee had requested a complete list of donations to investigate potential cases of quid pro quo or conflicts of interest, especially following allegations of vote-buying and the 'videogate' scandal. From March 2023 to the end of 2025, the Fund received contributions totaling €6.4 million. The Audit Office has highlighted a 'peculiar relationship' due to the Fund's presidency by the wife of the President of the Republic, who makes decisions affecting companies that donate. The Legal Service's opinion allows only for the partial replacement of names with initials, making full identification of donors impossible. Significant contributions raising questions include donations from individuals, companies with state contracts, shipping companies, credit management firms, financial institutions, and individuals linked to the Cyprus Investment Program. Contributions from companies and individuals active in the healthcare sector are also noteworthy. The Legal Service's decision prevents MPs from fully investigating the origin and motives of the contributions, highlighting the lack of transparency surrounding the Social Support Fund. The case underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of the Fund's resources.