The Audit Office has sharply criticized state authorities for their handling of an unauthorized concert in the environmentally sensitive Akamas Peninsula, warning of possible negligence by public officials in favor of private interests.

In a statement issued today, the Audit Office addressed recent comments by the Mayor of Akamas, the President of the Paphos Local Government Organization (EOA), and the head of the Environment Department concerning the stage and sound system installed for a private birthday party near Agios Georgios Peyia. The event took place within one of Cyprus’ most ecologically sensitive areas, raising alarm over its potential impact on turtle nesting beaches and other protected species.

The office accused local officials of attempting to blur the lines between the private party and the upcoming Carob Festival, calling this an effort to “deliberately misinform the public.” It stressed that the stage for the birthday party had been set up at a different site from the festival venue and appeared to have been installed without the necessary permits.

What caused particular concern, the statement noted, was that state authorities were aware of the planned event in advance, following prior warnings from the Audit Office itself, yet failed to take immediate and decisive action to prevent it. “There was sufficient time to act, but no effective measures were taken,” it said.

The Audit Office also rejected claims by Environment Department director Theodoulos Mesimeris that his service lacked the legal tools to intervene proactively. Such statements, it said, “send highly misleading signals about the state’s ability to enforce the rule of law,” reminding authorities that EU environmental law is built on the principles of precaution and prevention, not on measures taken after damage occurs.

According to the Audit Office, the initial evidence raises “reasonable suspicions of serious negligence by state officials to serve specific private interests.” A letter has already been sent to the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment. Depending on the ministry’s response and further investigation, the case could be referred to competent bodies for action.