Michalis Zolotas has called for the removal of publications, social media posts and announcements that directly or indirectly associate him with the so-called “Mafia State” case.
In a press release circulated to the media on Friday by his lawyers, Zolotas also demanded the deletion of photographs and personal information used in connection with the case, warning that he may pursue legal action should such references continue.
Objection to reports and photographs
Zolotas said recent reports concerning the appointment of an independent investigative team to examine findings by the Independent Authority against Corruption had included his name and photograph.
According to his statement, some reports had also described him as a “wanted person”, as being involved in the Focus case, or as an intermediary for Andreas Vgenopoulos in the alleged financing of Cyprus’ political system and public officials.
He argued that such references seriously damage his reputation, standing and legal rights, while creating what he described as false or misleading impressions among the public.
“The references are made in a general, vague, unsubstantiated and arbitrary manner and do not correspond to reality,” he said.
Court decisions cited
Zolotas referred to a Supreme Court ruling in Civil Appeal 381/2017, dated 9 July 2019, which found that his transfer to Cyprus had been unlawful.
He also cited a final decision by the Nicosia Permanent Assize Court, dated 31 July 2020, under which he was acquitted of the felony charges brought against him.
No investigation by anti-corruption authority
Zolotas said that he had not been investigated at any stage of the Independent Authority against Corruption’s inquiry into the “Mafia State” case.
He added that the authority’s announcement did not identify him as a person under investigation.
“The continued tarnishing of my name through repeated publications cannot but lead to the unjustified perpetuation of the violation of my personality, so many years after my final acquittal from the charges against me,” he said.
Request for removal of material
Zolotas called for the withdrawal and deletion of all publications, posts, announcements and similar material that directly or indirectly refer to him or associate him with the “Mafia State” case or any related matter.
He also asked media organisations and other parties to refrain from publishing references to him, his photographs or his personal data in a manner that, according to his statement, does not reflect the facts.
Zolotas warned that if the use of his name and personal data continued in a way that he considers damaging to his legal rights and reputation, he would take all necessary legal measures to protect his interests.
Source: CNA
