As the corruption trial surrounding Cyprus’ contentious citizenship-by-investment scheme commenced on Monday, uncertainty loomed over the testimony of a crucial prosecution witness.
Tony Kay, a British estate agent involved in Al Jazeera’s 2020 exposé, has declined to appear in person in Cyprus, citing health concerns and alleged threats against him. Prosecutors have indicated that Kay is prepared to testify via videoconference, but defence attorneys have opposed this method.
The trial involves former House President Demetris Syllouris, ex-MP and businessman Christakis Giovani, and Giovani’s company director, Antonis Antoniou. They are facing charges that include influence peddling and conspiracy to defraud in relation to the naturalization of foreign investors through the now-defunct citizenship scheme.
State prosecutor Charis Charalambidou emphasized the significance of Kay’s testimony, noting its critical role in two of the charges against the defendants. The court is set to rule next Wednesday on whether remote testimony will be permitted. Failure to secure Kay’s testimony could lead to the dismissal of two charges, potentially exonerating Antoniou entirely.
On the first day of proceedings, testimonies were heard from three prosecution witnesses, including two police officers and an official from the Interior Ministry. The charges are linked to alleged corruption in the naturalization applications of a Jordanian businessman, a Russian entrepreneur, and a Chinese investor with a criminal record, all highlighted in Al Jazeera’s investigation.
Among the allegations, Syllouris and Giovani are accused of accepting undue advantages to influence officials and expedite citizenship applications, involving companies such as Nissini Ltd, Lanuza Ltd, and Fidescorp Ltd. Additional charges pertain to the alleged conspiracy to defraud the Republic of Cyprus by advancing applications lacking proper residence permits.
The controversial citizenship-by-investment program, often referred to as the “Golden Passport” scheme, was terminated in November 2020 following international scrutiny.
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