Scandal over the introduction of electronic IDs brought to the level of parliament

The Parliamentary Control Committee of Cyprus intends to hear the Auditor General and the Deputy Minister of Research and Innovation in connection with the Audit Office’s report on the introduction of electronic identity cards. The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow.

The main subject of discussion will be the Audit Office’s finding that the project to create electronic IDs was awarded without a tender procedure to a company with which the current Deputy Minister had been associated in the past, prior to his appointment.

The parliamentary committee sent an official request to the Ministry of Research and Innovation demanding clarifications regarding the findings contained in the audit report. MPs are focusing on issues of procedural transparency, compliance with public procurement law, and possible conflict of interest.

Electronic IDs are modern next-generation ID cards intended to replace traditional paper documents. Such cards contain an electronic chip storing personal data and biometric information of the holder. They allow identity verification when dealing with government services, use of electronic signatures, access to online services, and secure interaction with digital systems. The introduction of these cards is part of the digitalization strategy of public services and aims to improve convenience and security for citizens.

During the session, the Audit Office report itself will be reviewed and responses from responsible officials will be heard. This meeting is particularly significant as it should clarify whether the principles of legality and integrity were observed in the implementation of a project crucial for the protection of citizens’ personal data and the functioning of the identification system.

The discussion is expected to attract wide public interest, given the sensitivity of the electronic ID issue and the need for strict oversight of such initiatives.