Police have launched an investigation into former footballer Costas Malekkos’ remarks on a popular television show, including claims that “the man is in charge” and “can do whatever he wants.”

The inquiry seeks to determine potential violations of anti-sexism and online sexism legislation.

Police spokesperson Kyriaki Lambrianidou confirmed to the Cyprus News Agency on Thursday that the investigation began following a formal complaint from the women’s movement POGO to the chief of police.

The group addressed its complaint via letter to the justice minister, the commissioner for legislation, the commissioner for administration, the commissioner for gender equality, and the chairman of the Cyprus broadcasting authority.

If offences are identified through the police investigation, the authority will summon the former footballer for questioning.

Malekkos sparked outrage with sexist remarks during a Sunday Night interview on AlphaNews. In the interview, Malekkos told television host Christiana Aristotelous, “You women have to accept that the man is in charge.” He further stated, “Women have taken the wrong road. Men are men, end of. When your husband isn’t a man at home, you’ll divorce him.”

Additionally, Malekkos claimed, “A man is allowed to do whatever he wants” and repeated, “You women have to accept that a man is in charge.”

POGO’s letter referred to the legislation on combating sexism, highlighting those intentional acts or expressions of sexism, as defined by the law, constitute a criminal offence.

Convictions can result in a prison sentence of up to one year, a fine of up to €5,000, or both.

The controversial remarks made at the pre-recorded interview has also raised questions about the accountability of media outlets in promoting sexist narratives. Single parents’ association, argued that Alpha TV bore responsibility for airing the pre-recorded interview and even promoting it in advance.