Police officer and trade unionist Nikos Loizides is set to face a disciplinary hearing in October, potentially leading to his dismissal, in a case that has sparked debate over freedom of speech for union representatives within the force.
Loizides, vice president of the “ISOTITA” police union, was served with a 16-count disciplinary indictment in April, including charges of improper conduct and disobedience, stemming from public statements he made on television programmes.
The unprecedented case centres on Loizides’ dual role as a police officer and union spokesperson. Police leadership contends that, as an officer, he is subject to forced disciplinary regulations regardless of his union position.
A three-member panel, comprising a senior police officer and two members of the Law Office, has been appointed to hear the case. This body has the power to impose penalties including dismissal or forced resignation.
The investigation was initiated following complaints about Loizides’ appearances on four TV stations, where he discussed police operations and reorganisation. One charge alleges his statements were “impolite, detrimental to discipline, and defamatory to the Police Force”.
Prodromos Christofi, president of “ISOTITA”, called the proceedings “unprecedented” and “clearly illegal”, stating, “We have already approached competent institutions in Cyprus and abroad, denouncing an illegal procedure against Mr Loizides”.
The case has raised concerns about union rights within the police force and the balance between institutional discipline and freedom of speech for union representatives.
Nine witnesses, including police spokesperson Christos Andreou and two journalists, are expected to be called during the hearing.
The disciplinary action follows a rapid sequence of events in March, involving legal advice from the Attorney General’s office on how to proceed given the absence of Assistant Chiefs of Police due to court-annulled promotions.
