Journalist, researcher and author Makarios Drousiotis has appealed for financial support from civil society to help cover the costs of his legal defence and independent forensic examinations in connection with criminal proceedings he is facing.
In a public statement titled "I Ask for Your Help", Drousiotis said the Law Office of the Republic is referring him to the Criminal Court on 80 charges, which he says relate to the publication of false news in connection with the well-known "Sandy" case.
Drousiotis rejects the allegations and claims that:
"This is a fabrication, a cover-up conspiracy and retaliation for Mafia State."
He also stated that, four years after the publication of his book Mafia State, the Criminal Investigation Department at Police Headquarters is investigating a separate criminal case against him under what he describes as the pretext of publishing personal data.
According to Drousiotis, statements are being sought from the book's editor, designer and printer.
"What connection could these people possibly have with what I write in my books? What else can this be other than harassment of my collaborators?" he asks.
'The prosecutions are retaliatory'
Drousiotis claims the proceedings against him are motivated by retaliation and links them to revelations contained in Mafia State, as well as to his role as a witness in a criminal investigation he says is underway.
He further argues that the aim is to suppress his research into the sale of non-performing loans and property foreclosures.
"My investigations exposed a deeply corrupt system of power that serves powerful economic interests at the expense of thousands of citizens."
He describes the legal battle as unequal, saying he is facing:
"The entire machinery of the state," large law firms and powerful private interests.
According to Drousiotis, the objective is:
"To break me financially and exhaust me physically and mentally."
'My weak point is financial resources'
The journalist says he remains determined to continue his legal fight but acknowledges that funding is his main challenge.
"My weak point is financial resources. That is why they chose to attack me at that point."
Beyond legal representation costs, he says substantial sums will also be required for:
"Independent forensic examinations of mobile devices and digital material by specialised technical consultants and expert witnesses."
For that reason, he is making a public appeal for financial contributions.
"I appeal to civil society and invite you to become part of this effort by contributing financially. This battle does not concern only me. It concerns the rule of law, accountability, freedom of expression and the right of journalists to investigate serious matters of public interest without facing the threat of criminal prosecution and financial ruin."
How the funds will be used
According to Drousiotis, all funds collected will be used exclusively for:
- Legal defence expenses.
- Forensic examinations.
- Court-related costs.
He said summary information on funds raised and related expenditure will be published regularly, while respecting contributors' personal data.
The financial management of the campaign, he added, will be audited by a licensed audit firm.
"Even the smallest contribution has enormous moral and material value."
Individuals wishing to contact Drousiotis regarding financial support can do so through the email address he has made public: makoscy@gmail.com.
To make a donation, click here.
