Omega Live

Sylouris and Tziovanis Acquitted in 'Golden Passports' Case

Published February 17, 2026, 12:24
Sylouris and Tziovanis Acquitted in 'Golden Passports' Case

Former House Speaker Demetris Syllouris and former MP Christakis Tziovanis were found not guilty by the Permanent Criminal Court of Nicosia in the case related to the 'golden passports' scandal and the Al Jazeera report. The acquittal decision was made by majority vote and was 180 pages long. The courtroom was packed with relatives, friends, and associates of the defendants, who erupted in applause and cheers immediately after the announcement of the decision. The two defendants remained calm throughout the proceedings. The process continues with the reading of the minority opinion. It is noted that the Prosecution failed to prove the charges against the two individuals. The 'golden passports' case had caused strong reactions in Cyprus and abroad, as it concerned the granting of Cypriot citizenship to foreigners in exchange for financial benefits.