Cyprus's Audit Office has stopped state money for political parties. This is because parties have not paid back €2.1 million. This money was given in 2018. The Audit Office wants to know if future funds can be used for the debt. They are asking for legal advice.
The parties owe money from a long time ago. The Audit Office is now trying harder. The Auditor-General wrote a letter about this. He sent it to parliament leaders. The goal is to make parties pay their debts. A spokesperson said this is a way to pressure them.
The Audit Office has two main goals. First, they want to stop current money. This shows there are consequences for not paying. Second, they want to set a rule for the future. They suggest using some of the €7 million for 2026. This money could pay off the €2.1 million debt.
Parliament will make the final decision. The spokesperson said parliament is independent. It can decide if and how to give the money. This means parliament might not follow the Audit Office's advice. The situation is complicated. It involves money, legal advice, and parliament's power.
This problem shows a difficult area. Can independent bodies like parliament ignore advice? Public money could be lost if there is no solution. This could make people lose trust. The Audit Office wants to avoid this. Parties must pay their debts. Parliament must act quickly. The next few weeks will be important for party funding in Cyprus.