Cyprus chamber of accounts considers receipt of pensions by members of the cabinet is illegal

Today, many Cypriot media outlets have run headlines such as "Payment of pensions to the president and ministers is illegal" and "Audit Office wants to reclaim overpaid funds."

According to the official position of the Audit Office, President Nikos Christodoulides and members of his cabinet receive pensions along with their salaries. The president, however, explained that this is related to decisions made by former President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Anastasiadis, who unlawfully decided to grant himself and his ministers monthly allowances. President Christodoulides himself had voluntarily refused these allowances earlier.

In yesterday's statement, auditors reminded that the relevant law provides for a deferment of pension payments to beneficiaries holding positions such as president, speaker of parliament, deputy secretary, and member of parliament.

• Despite this, it seems that this provision was not implemented, and therefore, pensions were unlawfully received by individuals not entitled to them. Our department continues to investigate this situation, - the statement says.

The Audit Office recommends increasing the retirement age for ministers, deputy ministers, deputies, and mayors from 60 to 65 years in the respective existing law. It also suggests adding a provision prohibiting mayors and government officials from holding any state positions both within the country and in EU institutions after retirement