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Tag: Nicosia

  • Nicosia strike: Nicosia Prepares for Major Disruption as Teachers and Farmers Strike

    Nicosia strike: Nicosia Prepares for Major Disruption as Teachers and Farmers Strike

    nicosia strike — nicosia strike — Nicosia is bracing for a day of systemic paralysis on Thursday, 18 December, as a simultaneous strike by public school teachers and a tractor blockade by farmers threaten to cut off the city’s primary arteries.

    The coordinated industrial action represents a direct challenge to the government’s reform agenda. While teachers are striking to block a controversial evaluation bill that critics say invites political favouritism, their move risks the Republic’s access to €60 million in EU Recovery and Resilience Facility funds. Simultaneously, hundreds of farmers are set to converge on the Presidential Palace, protesting “unacceptable” EU agricultural policies that they claim are driving local producers into insolvency.

    Nicosia strike: Commuter Chaos Expected

    The double wave of action is timed to hit during the morning rush hour, with the Ministry of Transport confirming the complete cancellation of school bus services for over 310,000 residents. This will likely lead to chaos on the roads as parents scramble for private transport alternatives.

    Strike Timings and Locations

    Teachers’ unions have scheduled their strike in two phases: the Secondary Strike (OELMEK) runs from 07:30 to 09:00, while the Primary Strike (POED) lasts from 07:30 to 09:05. During this critical period, agricultural convoys from every district will begin their trek to the GSP Stadium and the Jumbo car park in Latsia.

    Convergence Towards the Capital

    By 10:30, these convoys are expected to funnel heavy machinery through Athalassa and Iosif Hadjiosif avenues, aiming for a final standoff at “Europe House” on Lord Byron Street. The convergence of farmers and teachers signifies a significant mobilization against current government policies and highlights the desperation of local producers.

  • Pharmacies open — Pharmacies Open Overnight on Wednesday, 17 December 2025

    Pharmacies open — Pharmacies Open Overnight on Wednesday, 17 December 2025

    Pharmacies open overnight on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, provide essential services to residents across various cities including Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and Famagusta.

    Nicosia Pharmacies Ready to Serve

    In Nicosia, several pharmacies will be operating overnight, ensuring that those in need can access medications and health-related advice. Key locations include:

    • Chagoudes Andreas: Strovolos Avenue 244C, opposite former Sun Tower, Strovolos (22049296, 96118353)
    • Chatziapostolou Antonis: Kyriakou Matsi Avenue 37A, Junior English School road, Nicosia (22311416, 99513314)
    • Matsa Lito: Agiou Andrea 64, opposite post office and ZORPA, next to AMSTERDAM kiosk, Pallouriotissa (22260566)
    • Kari Christiana: Andrea Avraamidi 50, opposite Aretaieio Hospital, Strovolos (22771999, 22351072)
    • Xenofontos Xenios: Theodosi Pieridi 15, 50m opposite ZORPA bakery, Tseri (22721451, 99556039)
    • Kagia Katerina: Dimitri Stavrou 3AB, next to Latsia health centre, former Laiki Sporting Club road, Latsia (22480888)

    Limassol’s Overnight Options

    Limassol residents will also have access to a number of pharmacies throughout the night. The following establishments are confirmed to be open:

    • Petrides Michael: Makariou III Avenue 23, FOUI lights, Limassol (25363655, 99461515)
    • Potamitou Maria: Vasileos Konstantinou I 29B, Tsirio Municipal road, Limassol (25364000, 25382333)
    • Panagioutou Panagiotis: Agias Fylaxeos 225, 100m from Agia Fyla roundabout towards Agia Fyla, next to Sunfresh, Limassol (25770930, 25811860)
    • Darvis Georgios: Vasili Michailidi 13, IASO Medical Centre, Limassol (25347070, 99201014)
    • Vasiliou Aristos: Griva Digeni Avenue 63, opposite Kapatsos restaurant, Limassol (25580906, 99444906)

    Larnaca Pharmacies Available All Night

    Larnaca will also have pharmacies on duty overnight, ensuring residents can find necessary medications. Open pharmacies include:

    • Orfanides Michel: Konstantinou Kalogera 11, opposite Kalogera Primary School, Larnaca (24621360, 24531859)
    • Koulouma Dimitriou Anna: Inonemon Ethnon 16A, Larnaca-Limassol road, Larnaca (24642333, 24661155)
    • Rizek Andreas: Archbishop Makarios Avenue 65, Kiti (24427065, 24425209)

    Paphos Pharmacies Open Late

    Paphos residents will have access to pharmacies ready to assist throughout the night. The following locations will be open:

    • Iliades Ilias: Anexartisias 11 & Eptanisou 1, next to Technical School, Paphos (26941100, 26944544)
    • Filippidou-Georgiadu Konstantia: Evagora Pallikaridi 93, opposite NUMERO clothing shop, Paphos (26949259, 26222670)
    • Sokratous Sokratis: Makariou III Avenue & Evagora Pallikaridi 6, Polis Chrysochous (26321253, 99725006)

    Famagusta’s Pharmacy Accessibility

    In Famagusta, pharmacies will also be open overnight, providing services to those in need. The pharmacies on duty are:

    • Kamilaris Andreas: Korai 52, opposite Paralimni Lyceum, Paralimni (23744160, 23743418)
    • Gerolemou Petroula: Achyrona 2, Avgorou (23922931)

    These pharmacies play a crucial role in ensuring the community has access to necessary health resources during late hours. Residents are encouraged to note these locations and contact them if they require services overnight.

  • Justice Minister Commits to Reform Central Prisons Following Inmate Deaths

    Justice Minister Commits to Reform Central Prisons Following Inmate Deaths

    The Justice Minister has pledged significant changes to the Central Prisons after two inmates tragically died within a week. Costas Fytiris announced a “swift, substantial and comprehensive intervention” to tackle pressing issues within the facility, emphasising the need for urgent improvements.

    This announcement came after an urgent meeting with President Nikos Christodoulides, which followed the unsettling fatalities. The Minister visited the prison to receive updates from law enforcement and prison administration regarding the initial findings of the ongoing investigation into the deaths. He has since called for a prompt completion of this inquiry to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

    At the meeting with President Christodoulides, Minister Fytiris outlined his vision for addressing the “long-standing problems” plaguing the Central Prisons. He affirmed that he now had a clear understanding of the facility’s needs and expressed his determination to implement necessary changes.

    The Ministry of Justice has identified several priorities as part of its response, focusing on immediate, medium-term, and long-term measures. These initiatives revolve around three main axes:

    • Decongestion of the Central Prisons.
    • Improvement of inmate living conditions.
    • Upgrading surveillance and control measures to prevent delinquent behaviour.

    The Ministry highlighted that these actions are crucial to ensuring the prison operates in accordance with the rule of law and adheres to national and international human rights standards for all detainees and staff. Discussions also addressed the pressing issue of appointing a permanent director for the Central Prisons, a position that has remained vacant.

    The recent deaths have brought renewed scrutiny to the Nicosia Central Prisons, which have long been under fire for their conditions. Reports from the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) have classified the environment as one that constitutes inhuman and degrading treatment. The CPT’s visits in 2023 and 2025 confirmed that the facility is significantly overcrowded, with many inmates confined to spaces of less than 6m² and often forced to sleep on the floor.

    This overcrowding crisis is compounded by chronic understaffing, undermining essential safety and security protocols and resulting in heightened levels of violence among inmates. The volatile conditions have been linked to inadequate support for vulnerable prisoners and a significant risk of suicide.

    Moreover, the CPT has condemned the ongoing practice of holding minors in unsanitary conditions lacking basic services, urging authorities to immediately transfer all children and young adults to appropriate facilities.

  • Affordable homes — State to Build 500 New Affordable Homes Across Major Cities

    Affordable homes — State to Build 500 New Affordable Homes Across Major Cities

    affordable homes — The state is set to develop 500 new affordable homes to meet the growing housing demand, as President Nikos Christodoulides announced on Tuesday. This initiative aims to provide rental and sale options in Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    • More details about the project and its timeline will be released in the coming months as the state moves forward with its plans.

    President Christodoulides emphasised the importance of this measure, stating, “This is an important measure that will help to ease the pressure caused by rising housing demand and will significantly contribute to reducing housing costs. It is a plan long requested by social partners and developed in cooperation with them.”

    The new housing units will be priced affordably, with a primary focus on young people looking to enter the property market. This demographic has been particularly affected by the rising costs associated with housing.

    With construction costs estimated at around €70 million, the project will involve using state-owned land valued at over €7 million. The government intends to offer these plots to the private sector through a tender process, ensuring that the construction is carried out efficiently.

    President Christodoulides also highlighted that the rental units will remain under state ownership, which will help maintain affordability in the long term. He noted, “In total, the current government’s investment in housing policy so far exceeds €300 million.” This investment reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis and supporting citizens in their quest for affordable living options.

    More details about the project and its timeline will be released in the coming months as the state moves forward with its plans.

  • Inmate Dies Following Violent Assault at Nicosia Central Prisons

    Inmate Dies Following Violent Assault at Nicosia Central Prisons

    An inmate has tragically died after a brutal attack at Nicosia Central Prisons, prompting authorities to investigate a potential murder case.

    • An inmate has tragically died after a brutal attack at Nicosia Central Prisons, prompting authorities to investigate a potential murder case.
    • The victim, a man of Arab origin, was assaulted by three Greek Cypriot inmates within the facility. Early reports suggest that the attack was particularly violent, leading to severe injuries.
    • After the assault, the victim was quickly transported to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
    • The investigation is ongoing, and arrests of those involved are expected to take place soon.

    The victim, a man of Arab origin, was assaulted by three Greek Cypriot inmates within the facility. Early reports suggest that the attack was particularly violent, leading to severe injuries.

    After the assault, the victim was quickly transported to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

    Authorities are taking the incident very seriously, with the Nicosia CID launching a murder investigation. The prison’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) system is believed to have captured the entire incident, which could aid in identifying the assailants.

    The investigation is ongoing, and arrests of those involved are expected to take place soon.

  • Arrest Made in Theft of Holy Relic from Nicosia Church

    Arrest Made in Theft of Holy Relic from Nicosia Church

    A 44-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of stealing a holy relic from a church in the Nicosia district village of Pano Deftera.

    • A 44-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of stealing a holy relic from a church in the Nicosia district village of Pano Deftera.

    The police reported that the suspect was taken into custody on Friday evening, following a theft that was reported on November 29. The timely intervention by local authorities has brought attention to the seriousness of such offences, especially involving items of religious significance.

    Upon her arrest, the woman was presented in court on Saturday, where she was remanded in custody for six days. This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by places of worship in safeguarding their treasured artefacts.

    The theft of religious items not only affects the immediate community but also raises concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage. Local residents have expressed their shock at the incident, emphasising the importance of protecting their local church and its sacred relics.

    The police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the theft, aiming to gather more information that could lead to further developments in the case. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution.

  • Christmas tree: Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest to Illuminate the Season with Tree Lighting

    Christmas tree: Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest to Illuminate the Season with Tree Lighting

    The Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest is set to bring festive cheer to Nicosia with the Lighting of the Christmas Tree this Sunday. The event, organised by the Nicosia Municipality, promises a vibrant day filled with various activities for all ages.

    • Mark your calendars for December 7, and come along to the chapel of Ayios Dometios for a day of festivities that will light up the community with joy and celebration.

    A Day of Festivities

    Scheduled from 12pm to 8.30pm, the Christmas Fest will take place at the chapel of Ayios Dometios. Attendees can expect a rich programme that includes live music, workshops, and children’s activities that showcase local cultural creativity. This festive gathering aims to strengthen the Christmas spirit within the community.

    Musical Performances and Cultural Showcases

    Among the highlights of the day will be performances from local artists, including the popular trio Rumba Attack and the Chara Miller Jazz Quintet. These acts are set to entertain the crowd with a mix of festive tunes, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the event.

    Local school choirs will also take to the stage, offering their vocal talents as part of the festivities. Additionally, the Musica Mundana Conservatory Choir and the Genesis Cultural Choir will perform, adding to the rich tapestry of local musical culture.

    Engaging Activities for Children

    Children attending the Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest will have plenty to keep them engaged. Craft workshops and interactive activities are planned to entertain the younger audience, allowing them to express their creativity in a festive setting.

    These workshops not only provide entertainment but also allow children to take part in the festive spirit by creating their own holiday-themed crafts. Parents can enjoy the peace of mind knowing their children are entertained while experiencing the holiday cheer.

    A Market for Local Treasures

    The Christmas market at Ayios Dometios will offer a selection of handmade creations and local treats, providing an excellent opportunity for attendees to shop local this festive season. From unique crafts to delicious festive snacks, the market aims to support local artisans and businesses.

    Visitors will have the chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts for their loved ones while enjoying the festive atmosphere of the market. This initiative not only boosts local commerce but also fosters a sense of community among attendees.

    Lighting of the Christmas Tree

    The culmination of the day’s events will be the ceremonial Lighting of the Christmas Tree at 5pm. This moment is anticipated by many in the community as it symbolises the official start of the festive season in Nicosia.

    Following the tree lighting, a rich live music programme will continue, allowing everyone to celebrate together. The combination of music, lights, and the joyful spirit of the season is sure to create lasting memories for all attendees.

    A Community Celebration

    The Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest is a key part of the Municipality of Nicosia’s broader festive programme, Christmas in the Capital. This initiative aims to bring the community together through various events that promote cultural engagement and festive cheer.

    Local residents and visitors alike are encouraged to join in the celebration, making it an inclusive occasion for everyone. The emphasis on local culture, music, and community spirit makes this event a highlight of the Christmas season.

    Join the Festivities

    As the festive season approaches, the Ayios Dometios Christmas Fest serves as a reminder of the joy and togetherness that the holidays bring. With a variety of activities lined up, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    The event is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that all ages can participate in the celebrations. Whether it’s enjoying the live music, exploring the Christmas market, or watching the children engage in craft workshops, the day promises to be filled with holiday spirit.

    Mark your calendars for December 7, and come along to the chapel of Ayios Dometios for a day of festivities that will light up the community with joy and celebration.

  • Redistribution — Parliament Approves Redistribution of Seats from Nicosia to Paphos

    Redistribution — Parliament Approves Redistribution of Seats from Nicosia to Paphos

    redistribution — Parliament voted unanimously to approve legislation redistributing parliamentary seats, giving Paphos a fifth seat while reducing Nicosia’s representation from 20 to 19 MPs. The changes will take effect in the 2026 parliamentary elections.

    • Onoufrios Koulla proposed that future seat allocations could be linked to actual voter turnout, suggesting this might encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
    • The bill passed with 37 votes in favour, while Parliament postponed a related vote concerning amendments addressing issues with namesakes among candidates from the same party list.

    The amendment to the Election of Members of the House of Representatives Law is based on registered voter numbers as of 2 October 2025, when the supplementary electoral roll was incorporated into the permanent register. As it stands, total registered voters across Cyprus number 561,253.

    The calculation method for seat distribution by district follows the procedure outlined in the election law for first and second seat allocation after voting concludes. Interior Committee chairman Aristos Damianou observed that under automatic voter registration, Nicosia would not lose a seat and might even gain one, potentially occurring in subsequent parliamentary elections.

    Chrysanthos Savvides remarked on the significance of the vote, describing it as a historic day for Paphos, which is experiencing growth both politically and in sports, referencing Pafos FC. ‘This means we Paphians will have another strong voice in parliament,’ he stated.

    Marinos Mousiouttas highlighted the implications of automatic voter registration legislation, suggesting that the seat could eventually return to Nicosia. Similarly, Charalambos Pazaros called it a historic moment for Paphos, noting that it resolves a longstanding issue regarding compulsory single preference voting, as voters will now have a second choice.

    Andreas Themistokleous expressed that no MP would oppose what he deemed ‘logic and justice,’ asserting that the seat rightfully belongs to Paphos. However, he cautioned that automatic registration might lead to further seat redistribution, affecting other districts as well.

    Demetris Demetriou emphasised the necessity of applying population proportions to ensure fair representation. In contrast, Marinos Sizopoulos pointed out that the Cypriot parliament must not remain the smallest in the EU and urged for an increase in the number of MPs to fulfil obligations more effectively.

    Onoufrios Koulla proposed that future seat allocations could be linked to actual voter turnout, suggesting this might encourage greater participation in the electoral process.

    The bill passed with 37 votes in favour, while Parliament postponed a related vote concerning amendments addressing issues with namesakes among candidates from the same party list.

  • Cypriot hellenism — Exhibition Celebrates New Era for Cypriot Hellenism

    Cypriot hellenism — Exhibition Celebrates New Era for Cypriot Hellenism

    cypriot hellenism — The phrase ‘new era for Cypriot Hellenism’ resonated through the halls of the old Nicosia Old Town Hall as President Nikos Christodoulides inaugurated the ’70 Years of Eoka 1955-1959′ exhibition on Saturday. This event marks a significant reflection on the armed Eoka struggle that began in 1955, a pivotal moment in Cyprus’s quest for self-determination.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    During his address, Christodoulides expressed profound pride in the sacrifices made by the ancestors of the Cypriot people. He remarked, “I am proud of our ancestors, of the people of our homeland, who, literally and figuratively burning with love for freedom and the Union with Greece and defying all danger and hesitation, joined the struggle and generously offered their services.” This sentiment encapsulates the enduring spirit of those who fought during the turbulent years of Eoka.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    The exhibition, organised by the government Press and Information Office (PIO), showcases a rich collection of archived newspapers, photographs, and artefacts from the era, many of which are on display for the first time. Visitors are invited to engage with the history that shaped their nation, reflecting on the struggles faced in the pursuit of independence.

    Christodoulides acknowledged that while Eoka’s struggle did not achieve the desired union with Greece, it ultimately led to the establishment of the Republic of Cyprus in 1960. He stated, “The struggle of Eoka 55-59 may not have led to the coveted union with Greece, but it did bring about the most valuable asset to date, our statehood, our greatest bargaining power.” This perspective highlights the complex legacy of Eoka, framed within the broader narrative of Cypriot identity and statehood.

    As visitors traverse the exhibition, they can sense the “accumulated resentment” stemming from decades of foreign occupation following World War II. Christodoulides described the period as one of “decolonisation” for the island, noting the disappointment felt by many as their aspirations for self-determination were repeatedly thwarted. He emphasised the importance of remembering these struggles, stating that the memories of Eoka have been passed down through generations.

    The president paid tribute to notable Eoka fighters such as Kyriakos Matsis, Gregoris Afxentiou, Markos Drakos, and Evagoras Pallikarides. They were hailed as “seeds in the land of Cyprus which bore fruit in its freedom and independence.” Such recognition serves to honour the contributions made by these individuals in the fight against colonial rule.

    As discussions continue regarding the future of Cyprus, including a forthcoming meeting between the island’s leaders and UN envoy Maria Holguin, Christodoulides was careful to position the exhibition within the context of ongoing negotiations. He stressed that the exhibition does not undermine current efforts to resolve the Cyprus issue. “The viability, the functionality of a possible solution goes to a very large extent through respect for the historical identity of each person and certainly not through self-abolition,” he said. This statement reinforces the idea that understanding and respecting history is crucial for any future resolution.

    The ’70 Years of Eoka 1955-1959′ exhibition opens to the public on Sunday and will be accessible until December 12. Visitors can enjoy free entry from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 7pm, and on weekends from 10am to 6pm. This initiative not only serves as a reminder of the island’s tumultuous past but also invites a dialogue about its future.

  • Two Arrested for Alleged Involvement in Triple Burglary

    Two Arrested for Alleged Involvement in Triple Burglary

    triple burglary — triple burglary — Two individuals are now in custody following their alleged involvement in a series of burglaries in Nicosia. A 44-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman were remanded in police custody for five days on Friday as part of ongoing investigations.

    • Both individuals are expected to face further questioning as detectives continue their work to uncover the full extent of the crimes committed.

    The arrests were made after police executed court warrants related to three separate cases of burglary and theft that occurred between November 4 and November 20. These incidents have raised concerns in the local community, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

    According to police reports, the 44-year-old man is suspected of selling various pieces of jewellery to a gold shop in Nicosia just days before the arrests. On November 20, he allegedly sold these items without the necessary certificates, which has drawn further scrutiny to the transactions made at the shop.

    The woman, who is employed at the gold shop, is also facing charges linked to her role in this transaction. While police have gathered evidence against the man, investigations into the broader case are still ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to piece together all the details surrounding these burglaries.

    As the investigation unfolds, police are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in their inquiries. This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in addressing crime.

    Both individuals are expected to face further questioning as detectives continue their work to uncover the full extent of the crimes committed.