Cyprus is dealing with the results of the 'videogate' scandal. The Tax Office is now investigating George Lakkotrypis. He was the former Minister of Energy. The investigation looks at claims about undeclared money. It also checks rules about jobs after being a minister. And it examines lobbying activities. This is a serious step after secret videos hurt trust in politicians.
The main part of the investigation is about money Mr. Lakkotrypis got. He reportedly received consultancy fees. This was after he left his minister job in July 2020. Tax officials are checking if he declared the €15,000 he said he earned. They are also checking if he paid Value Added Tax (VAT). The investigation looks at financial records from several years. There were different stories about how he was paid. He told police it was by bank transfer. However, the 'videogate' video suggested he was paid "only in cash." This caused worries about undeclared income and tax problems.
There is also a separate check on Mr. Lakkotrypis's new job. Former government officials have rules for two years after leaving office. They cannot work in the private sector if it is too close to their old job. They need special permission for such work. Investigators are checking if Mr. Lakkotrypis got this permission.
The parliament is also looking at this. A committee met to discuss how to watch former officials' new jobs. The 'videogate' video was discussed. It showed worries about honesty and conflicts of interest. Ms. Gianna Hatzihanna leads a committee. She said their work is secret. Sharing information wrongly can lead to big problems.
However, people want more openness. An MP, Irini Charalambidou, left a committee. She wants to get official records about Mr. Lakkotrypis. This shows a strong wish for access to decisions. Not paying VAT can mean big fines or jail. This investigation is important for Cyprus's government. The Tax Commissioner, Sotiris Markides, promised to investigate all public worries.