Papadakis removed from Alma ballot amid Drousiotis fallout

Alma confirmed it has removed former MEP Dimitris Papadakis from its parliamentary election ballot on Tuesday, citing political considerations linked to ongoing allegations over disputed messages, despite stressing that the presumption of innocence remains intact.

The decision followed a meeting of the party’s executive secretariat, during which Papadakis was invited to present his position.

The move comes less than a month before candidate lists must be finalised for the May elections.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the movement said the issue was “purely political and not legal”, pointing to a loss of confidence rather than any finding of wrongdoing.

It added that while no evidence has emerged suggesting criminal conduct, even the possibility that the messages could be authentic would amount to “politically reprehensible behaviour”.

The allegations stem from claims by journalist Makarios Drousiotis, who has published material purporting to show exchanges between Papadakis and former Supreme Court judge Michalakis Christodoulou, alongside wider claims of corruption, influence networks and interference in judicial processes.

Those named have rejected the allegations.

Alma said it could not simultaneously call for a full investigation into what it described as serious claims while defending a candidate directly linked to the controversy.

“It is not politically permissible for the movement, to have to defend its candidate,” the statement said, adding that Papadakis’ continued presence on the ballot would create a conflict of interest.

The party also cited time constraints, saying it was not possible to determine the authenticity of the material before nominations close.

It argued that temporary distancing would allow Papadakis to defend himself independently, in line with international practice.

Papadakis responded by describing the development as a “political divorce”, saying the decision reflected a lack of support from the party leadership.

“I did not enjoy clear support in my effort to let the truth shine,” he retorted.

He rejected the allegations outright, insisting the messages attributed to him are fabricated and denying any connection to Christodoulou.

“I have never seen him in my life,” he said previously, adding that his mobile phone has been submitted for independent forensic examination, with findings to be forwarded to police.

Referring to the claims made by Drousiotis, Papadakis said “his fairy tales are already collapsing” and that “the truth is coming to the surface”, alleging that the material originated from a “factory of false messages”.

He confirmed he would not pursue a parliamentary seat and said his priority was to defend his reputation.

“My personal dignity is non-negotiable,” he said, adding that he would “fight until the end without any retreat”.

The case has triggered a broader investigation by police, described by authorities as “serious and complex”, with requests made for all relevant evidence to be submitted.

Drousiotis has said he will cooperate through legal counsel.

Alma reiterated its call for a full inquiry by the anti-corruption authority and raised concerns over the handling of the case to date, warning that delays risk undermining public trust.