NICOSIA, Jan. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Cypriot government on Thursday rejected allegations circulating on social media against President Nikos Christodoulides, describing a related video as "malicious" and saying authorities are examining what it termed a case of "hybrid activity" targeting the country.
In a written statement, Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said that, based on assessments by the competent state authority and evidence gathered so far, the matter is being investigated as possible hybrid activity against the Republic of Cyprus. He added that the attorney general and the chief of police have been informed.
Letymbiotis said the video, which has been widely shared online, contains edited material and false, misleading claims aimed at damaging the image of the government and the country.
The eight-minute video, first posted by a little-known account on the social media platform X, presents documentary-style narration and includes footage of public figures, reported the Cyprus Mail. The video alleges that President Christodoulides and his associates engaged in illegal campaign financing during the 2023 presidential election, accusations the government has categorically denied.
Former energy minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis, who appears in the video, said he has filed a complaint with the Nicosia Criminal Investigation Department, reported the Cyprus News Agency. Political parties have also reacted, while investigations by the relevant authorities are ongoing. ■
