Alma Movement Calls for Transparency in Independent Officials' Appointments

The Alma Movement – Citizens for Cyprus has commented on the upcoming vacancies of three Independent Officials of the Republic of Cyprus: the Commissioner for Personal Data Protection, the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights, and the Commissioner of Legislation.

In a statement, the Alma Movement emphasizes that the process of filling these positions, although initiated by the President of the Republic, should not be based on partisan appointments but should ensure transparency, objectivity, independence, high qualifications, and expertise.

Alma points out that these positions do not fall under the executive branch but have a role in monitoring and criticizing it. It also refers to the legal and institutional provisions governing the appointments of the Commissioners, as well as the need to re-evaluate the institution of the Commissioner of Legislation.

The movement calls on the President of the Republic to honor his commitment to introduce special appointment criteria and establish an Advisory Board. It also requests a public announcement of the vacancies, the definition and publication of appointment criteria, and the evaluation of applications by the Advisory Board.

Alma emphasizes that transparency and meritocracy are fundamental pillars of the rule of law and necessary for legitimizing the decisions of state authority.