A big court case is delayed. It is about the "golden passport" plan. This plan gave passports to rich people. The court in Nicosia will not start the trial soon. It will start more than two years later. The trial was to begin last Friday.
Former minister Marios Demetriades is in the case. Seven other people and two companies are also part of it. The judge said the court has many cases. This is why the trial is late. The new start date is March 9, 2026.
The people in the case have many charges. They are accused of bribery and fraud. They also face money laundering charges. This is about giving Cypriot citizenship for money. Foreign investors got passports for money. The "golden passport" plan is now stopped.
The delay gives lawyers more time. They want to make the trial shorter. They will talk about the facts. The defence also asked about how to show papers. They want to know if papers should be printed or digital.
The prosecutor said they can agree on some facts. But all sides must agree. The case is very big. The delay helps both sides get ready. The result will show how people see the "golden passport" plan. It will also help Cyprus's image.