**NICOSIA, CYPRUS** – First Lady Philippa Karsera Christodoulides has announced her immediate resignation from her leadership positions in charitable organisations, including her chairmanship of the management committee of the Independent Social Support Agency (AFKS). The decision, made public on Sunday, comes in response to what she described as a relentless and defamatory onslaught of online commentary directed at her and her family. This move signals a stark confrontation with the growing phenomenon of digital vitriol and its impact on public figures.
Mrs. Christodoulides, who assumed the helm at AFKS in March of last year, stated that the pervasive and malicious accusations of misconduct necessitated her withdrawal from these roles. In a written statement disseminated across social media platforms, she articulated her profound distress over the "unrelenting attack" and "defamatory comments and allegations of wrongdoing" that have plagued her and her family in the preceding 24 hours. Her resignation extends to all other charitable bodies where she held executive chair positions, a decision she believes is crucial to safeguarding the integrity and reputation of not only herself but also her husband, the President of the Republic, and their children.
The First Lady emphasised that her commitment to supporting vulnerable populations remains undimmed, but the escalating nature of the online discourse, particularly following recent enhancements to the agency's budget and scholarship programmes in 2024 and 2025, had rendered her continued involvement untenable. She asserted that her status as the spouse of the head of state should not serve as a pretext for such unfounded accusations. Furthermore, Mrs. Christodoulides has reportedly sought legal counsel regarding the persistent online harassment, indicating a potential for formal action against those perpetuating what she deems "malicious and unfounded claims." The legislative framework for her tenure at AFKS, enacted by the House of Representatives in 2015, was also referenced, underscoring her adherence to established regulations.
An extraordinary session of the AFKS management committee has been convened for Monday, where Mrs. Christodoulides’ formal resignation is expected to be processed. Her decision casts a spotlight on the corrosive effects of online defamation, particularly when employed for political or electoral leverage, and the significant personal toll it exacts. It underscores a broader societal challenge in navigating the digital sphere and protecting individuals from unwarranted attacks that extend beyond public scrutiny into the realm of personal vilification. The First Lady’s stance suggests a belief that meaningful contributions to society are not contingent upon holding formal titles or positions, but are rather driven by genuine philanthropic intent, which, in her case, has been overshadowed by the storm of online calumny.