Cyprus to make politicians more accountable
Cyprus president outlines reforms to bolster government accountability amid financial crisis
A riot police stands in front of protestors, with a banner display the image of the head of Cyprus central bank Panicos Dimitriades, and right, a banner displaying the image the president Nicos Anastasiades, former president Dimitris Christofias, and other members of parliament, during an anti-bailout protest outside of the Cyprus' parliament in capital Nicosia, Thursday, April 25, 2013. Cyprus’ central bank says the Romanian operations of the island nation’s largest lender Bank of Cyprus will resume April 26th after being suspended for more than three weeks amid plans to sell them off. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)
NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) -- Cyprus' president has proposed a package of reforms increasing the accountability of politicians and curbing their immunity to prosecution.
Nicos Anastasiades says presidential terms will be limited to two consecutive 5-year periods. However, a former president can again seek re-election after a hiatus of at least one term. There is currently no limit to the terms a president can serve.
He says ministers and top civil servants will face tougher standards, with new criminal and civil liabilities to be enshrined in law. Members of parliament will lose immunity from prosecution for all types of offences. More government officials will have to declare their financial assets.
Anastasiades outlined the reforms Monday to restore public trust in Cyprus' political elite amid the worst financial crisis the country has faced in decades.
