Philenews

Disparities in Prosecution: A Critical Look at Cyprus' Attorney General's Office

Published February 20, 2026, 09:14
Disparities in Prosecution: A Critical Look at Cyprus' Attorney General's Office

The cases of "Al Jazeera" and Odysseus Michaelides highlight contrasting approaches by the Attorney General's Office. In the "Al Jazeera" case, a lack of evidence, granting immunity to suspects, and changes to the indictment led to a case that appeared lost from the start. The Criminal Court criticized the Legal Service for failing to call essential witnesses, without providing explanations. Conversely, in the Michaelides case, the Attorney General's Office demonstrated zeal, gathering extensive evidence (203 exhibits, 111 pages of argumentation) and presenting the case to the Supreme Constitutional Court. This difference in approach raises questions about the effectiveness and self-criticism of the Attorney General's Office. Criticism focuses on the lack of equal effort and attention in both cases, suggesting potential bias or differing priorities.