MVP

Tag: politics

  • Cypriot MEPs Openly Support Same-Sex Weddings

    Cypriot MEPs Openly Support Same-Sex Weddings

    same-sex weddings — same-sex weddings — Three Cypriot MEPs have expressed their willingness to attend a same-sex wedding if invited, highlighting a progressive shift in attitudes among some politicians in the region. Disy’s Loucas Fourlas, Diko’s Costas Mavrides, and independent Fidias Panayiotou all affirmed their support during a recent interaction with social media influencer Andreas Haris.

    When asked if they would attend a same-sex wedding, Fourlas responded enthusiastically, saying, “Of course, why would I not go?”, before clarifying, “if they invite me, right?” His openness was mirrored by Mavrides, who stated, “If they invite me to their party, I will go.” Adding a light-hearted touch to the conversation, Mavrides joked that he would bring an envelope of cash, a traditional gesture at Cypriot weddings, to which Haris quipped, “make it a fat envelope, you’re an MEP!”

    Panayiotou, initially pausing before his response, also agreed, acknowledging that the issue is complex. He commented, “It has a lot of background,” emphasising that attending a wedding does not necessarily equate to endorsing the institution of same-sex marriage or the associated rights, such as adoption.

    In stark contrast, Elam’s Geadis Geadi quickly dismissed the notion, stating a firm “no” when posed the same question, indicating a divergence in views among Cyprus’ political representatives. Notably, two other MEPs, Akel’s Giorgos Georgiou and Disy’s Michalis Hadjipantela, did not participate in the video discussion, with Haris noting that only those who consented to appear were included.

    Despite these progressive responses, same-sex marriage remains illegal in Cyprus. However, civil unions for same-sex couples have been permitted since 2016. According to the Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, there are currently 415 same-sex couples in civil unions across the island.

    Cyprus stands as one of seven EU member states that do not recognise same-sex marriage. Unlike five of its counterparts—Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovakia—Cyprus does not have a constitutional prohibition against it. This legal landscape shifted somewhat in November 2022, when the European Court of Justice ruled that all EU member states must acknowledge same-sex marriages conducted in jurisdictions where they are lawful. Consequently, a couple married in a recognised jurisdiction must be regarded as married in Cyprus if they visit the island.

  • Guterres Expresses Disturbance Over Cyprus Problem Stalemate

    Guterres Expresses Disturbance Over Cyprus Problem Stalemate

    cyprus problem — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is “seriously disturbed” by the lack of progress on the Cyprus problem following a recent tripartite meeting. This meeting, which involved his envoy Maria Angela Holguin, President Nikos Christodoulides, and Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman, was held last month to discuss ongoing issues between the island’s communities.

    According to reports by Turkish public broadcaster TRT, Guterres has pressed the Cypriot leaders to urgently implement confidence-building measures to improve relations between the Greek and Turkish Cypriots. He reportedly conveyed a strong message to Holguin, stating that without visible steps towards these measures, he would refrain from convening a larger meeting.

    Following the discussions, Holguin indicated that no immediate plans for an enlarged meeting were in place, emphasising the need for tangible results in confidence-building efforts. She remarked, “I am waiting for something more,” hinting at the lack of responsiveness from both leaders regarding her prior demands for progress.

    Despite the setbacks, Holguin maintained a positive outlook, asserting that “all processes are dynamic” and expressing her belief that progress would eventually occur. President Christodoulides echoed this sentiment, stating that he was not disappointed with the outcomes of the meeting and outlining a five-point proposal he had submitted to Holguin and Erhurman.

    Christodoulides expressed willingness to announce additional unilateral measures for the Turkish Cypriots and suggested a meeting between Greek Cypriot chief negotiator Menelaos Menelaou and Erhurman’s undersecretary, Mehmet Dana, within the next two weeks. The main aim of this meeting would be to resume negotiations.

    Erhurman, however, noted that the trust between the two communities was insufficient for a fruitful enlarged meeting at this time. He indicated that the five-point proposal presented by Christodoulides lacked new elements, reiterating previously discussed topics and asserting that Wednesday’s meeting was “useful but not very productive.”

    Holguin had previously stated that little progress had been made in confidence-building measures since her last visit to Cyprus, which has heightened concerns over the ongoing stalemate. No date has been set for her return, but there is an indication from Christodoulides that Erhurman is willing to meet independently if necessary, demonstrating an urgency to move forward.

  • Corruption — Former Supreme Court Judge Leads Investigation into Presidential Corruption Allegations

    Corruption — Former Supreme Court Judge Leads Investigation into Presidential Corruption Allegations

    corruption — The focus keyword, corruption, is at the heart of an independent investigation led by Andreas Paschalides, a former Supreme Court Judge. Appointed by the Attorney General, Paschalides will oversee a probe into a video that has sparked allegations of misconduct within the presidential palace.

    This appointment was officially announced on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, by the Law Office. It comes in response to mounting pressure from both government coalition partners and opposition parties who demand a transparent inquiry into the serious claims raised by the footage.

    Andreas Paschalides, who also chairs the Independent Authority for the Investigation of Allegations and Complaints against the Police, has been empowered with extensive investigative authority. He will work closely with the Cyprus Police to examine potential criminal offences linked to individuals depicted in the video.

    Crucially, the investigation will delve into the video’s content, its authenticity, and the circumstances surrounding its creation. The footage first appeared on social media platform “X” on 8 January, uploaded by an account under the name “Emily Thompson.” This timeline is pivotal as it marks the beginning of the controversy that has since engulfed the presidential administration.

    The current administration, led by President Christodoulides, is experiencing a significant domestic crisis, with the President labelling the video leak a Russian-led “hybrid attack.” This accusation underscores the administration’s concerns about foreign interference during its tenure as the EU Council Presidency.

    Paschalides has been instructed to expedite the investigation, aiming for completion within three months. The probe’s outcomes are expected to be crucial, particularly for high-ranking officials, including Charalambos Charalambous, the former Director of the President’s Office, who resigned shortly after the video’s release.

    The Law Office has made it clear that Paschalides’ mandate encompasses any related issues that may arise during the investigation, allowing him a broad scope over the internal workings of the presidency during the time in question.

  • 2m debt — Ex-Strovolos Mayor Refutes €2m Debt Mismanagement Allegations

    2m debt — Ex-Strovolos Mayor Refutes €2m Debt Mismanagement Allegations

    2m debt — 2m debt — The former mayor of Strovolos has firmly denied claims that he left the municipality burdened with €2 million in debt. Andreas Papacharalambous defended his actions on Thursday, amidst a growing public spat with the current municipal administration.

    In a recent statement, the Strovolos municipality accused Papacharalambous of mishandling a significant debt owed by a private company. They allege that instead of reducing the debt, it has now escalated to €2.3 million, despite the negotiations initiated during his tenure.

    The municipality pointed out that Papacharalambous made decisions regarding this debt without proper approval from the municipal council, implying that he acted unilaterally. The debt in question is linked to unpaid entertainment tax, and the accusations stem from a decision made around 2020, when the former mayor opted to temporarily waive part of the repayment.

    In his defence, Papacharalambous explained that his choice to grant leniency was based on the company’s ongoing loan restructuring talks. He argued that insisting on immediate repayment could have driven the company to bankruptcy, resulting in a total loss of the owed amount for the municipality.

    He reiterated that the company had not received any forgiveness on its debt, stating, “not even for a single cent”. Furthermore, he has accused the current administration of leaking sensitive documents to the media regarding this matter, which he views as an attempt to undermine his reputation.

    As he navigates this controversy, Papacharalambous is also campaigning for a parliamentary seat with the Elam party. He suggested that the allegations against him are politically charged, aimed at diverting attention from more pressing societal issues. “The brutal distortion of truth and the attempt at misdirection from the real scandals of society amounts to a cheap political stunt,” he remarked, asserting that his political momentum will not be hindered by these claims.

  • Government Denies Claims of Illegal Campaign Financing Involving Christodoulides

    Government Denies Claims of Illegal Campaign Financing Involving Christodoulides

    christodoulides — The government has dismissed allegations of illegal campaign financing involving President Nikos Christodoulides as fake news. A video circulating on social media purportedly reveals how wealthy investors can bypass campaign donation laws through cash payments, but officials have labelled it as malicious and edited.

    Government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated on Thursday that the video is an attempt to tarnish the image of both the government and the country. He remarked, “This video attempts to damage the image of the government and country through false, misleading claims and arbitrary conclusions.” An initial assessment by the relevant state service has led the government to conclude that the video has been manipulated.

    In a subsequent update, Letymbiotis informed the public that authorities are investigating the video as a potential hybrid attack against the Republic of Cyprus. This investigation follows a complaint filed by former energy minister George Lakkotrypis, who appears in the footage.

    Lakkotrypis has claimed that the video was released from a fake profile and distorted the context of his conversations with supposed investors. He expressed concern that the video aims not only to harm his reputation but also to undermine the Republic of Cyprus and its president. He pointed out that the video’s release coincided with Cyprus assuming the presidency of the Council of the European Union, suggesting a deliberate timing to create controversy.

    In a detailed statement, Lakkotrypis said, “It is evident from the video that the statements attributed to me have been edited to distort the context of the discussions, with the ultimate aim of damaging our country, the president of the Republic himself and me personally. It is no coincidence that the video was leaked one day after the opening ceremony of the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the EU.” He confirmed that he would provide the police with all the evidence he has gathered in relation to the matter.

    The video’s impact has spurred political reactions, with several parties criticising the government following its release. Local media outlet Philenews published the video, clarifying that it does not endorse its content but acknowledges the need to inform the public due to the ongoing police investigation.

    As the investigation unfolds, the government continues to assert that the claims are unfounded, while the implications of the video remain a topic of intense discussion within the political landscape of Cyprus.

  • Political Parties Demand Clarity on Alleged Illegal Campaign Financing of Christodoulides

    Political Parties Demand Clarity on Alleged Illegal Campaign Financing of Christodoulides

    illegal campaign — illegal campaign — Political parties are raising serious concerns over a video that suggests illegal financing during the 2023 presidential campaign, focusing on the actions of President Nikos Christodoulides. The clip, which has gained traction on platform X, highlights potential misconduct regarding monetary support for the campaign and hints at questionable access for investors to the Presidential Palace.

    Opposition leaders have reacted swiftly, calling for immediate transparency from the government. Annita Demetriou, president of the Democratic Rally (DISY), expressed her alarm, stating, “For quite some time now, a video has been circulating that implicates people and the government in illegal practices. I hope it does not correspond to reality. I expect the competent authorities to do the obvious.”

    Stefanos Stefanou, the general secretary of the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL), echoed this sentiment, emphasising the need for clear answers regarding the funding issues tied to the Christodoulides administration. “The video circulating on social media raises serious institutional and political issues to which the government must give clear answers. We are waiting and will return to this,” he remarked.

    Adding to the chorus of discontent, MP Irene Charalambidou described the video as shocking, emphasising the urgency for an official statement from the government. “If I understand correctly, we are watching a shocking video that features the government with its associated businesspeople! There must be an immediate statement because we will have worse than the assistant’s resignation and the tragicomic events! Now there is also footage. Is it true? Or not?”

    Charalambidou directly called on government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis to provide clarity on the situation. Meanwhile, MP Alexandra Attalides remarked sarcastically on the early challenges faced by Christodoulides’ presidency, saying, “Our presidency is starting very well, Nikos Christodoulides. When we talked to you about transparency, you called us toxic!”

    As pressure mounts, the lack of an official response from the Presidential Palace is notable. The government faces a critical decision: to deny the allegations outright or to clarify the authenticity and content of the video that has sparked such uproar.

    The video has not only ignited political tension but has also prompted discussions about the integrity of the electoral process in Cyprus. It raises questions about how the handling of campaign financing could impact public trust in the government.

    In a separate but related development, former minister Emily Thompson shared a tweet suggesting the video uncovers a significant breach of campaign finance laws, alleging that the President exceeded the €1 million campaign finance cap through questionable means involving a family network. “Can’t even describe what I just received! BREAKING BOMBSHELL VIDEO EXPOSES CYPRUS PRESIDENT’S SHADOW CASH MACHINE!” she wrote.

    Philenews has published the video in question, clarifying that it does not endorse its content. They indicated that the matter has been referred to the police for investigation, underlining the seriousness of the allegations.

  • Erhurman hahn: Tufan Erhurman Engages with EU Envoy Hahn Amid Controversy

    Erhurman hahn: Tufan Erhurman Engages with EU Envoy Hahn Amid Controversy

    erhurman hahn — erhurman hahn — The Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman met this week with the European Union’s special representative for Cyprus, Johannes Hahn, sparking criticism from senior Turkish Cypriot officials who labelled the meeting a breach of protocol.

    Erhurman announced the meeting on social media on Wednesday evening, detailing discussions that revolved around EU-related issues pertinent to the island’s divided communities. Topics included the Schengen process, EU citizenship rights for children of mixed marriages, and direct contact with EU institutions.

    Erhurman hahn: Key Discussions on EU Matters

    During the meeting, Erhurman highlighted several significant matters, such as the ad hoc EU committee on alignment, rules regarding direct trade, the EU-supported GSI project, halloumi registration, and initiatives related to solar energy in the buffer zone. He accompanied his announcement with a photograph of the interaction with Hahn.

    Recent Joint Visits and Humanitarian Efforts

    This meeting followed a joint visit by Erhurman and the Greek Cypriot leader to the CMP anthropological laboratory, where they received updates on the organisation’s work concerning missing persons. Erhurman described supporting the laboratory as a duty and emphasised the importance of preventing the politicisation of its research. He expressed sympathy for families affected by the issue from both communities.

    Criticism from Turkish Cypriot Officials

    However, not all were supportive of the meeting. Turkish Cypriot Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertugruloglu publicly denounced the encounter, labelling it a mistake. He argued that Hahn’s role was appointed unilaterally by the European Commission, which he claimed only consulted with the Greek Cypriot leadership.

    Ertugruloglu contended that EU institutions have consistently favoured the Greek Cypriot side since the Republic of Cyprus’s accession to the EU in 2004. He reinforced that all Cyprus-related processes should occur under the oversight of the United Nations secretary-general, requiring consent from both sides for personal envoys and UN peacekeeping officials.

    Calls for Increased Cooperation and Equality

    The Foreign Minister further asserted that the Turkish Cypriot authorities view Hahn’s appointment as an internal EU issue and cannot recognise it in official negotiations. He cautioned that unilateral actions by the EU could jeopardise ongoing diplomatic efforts within the UN framework.

    Stressing the importance of cooperation based on sovereign equality, Ertugruloglu called for the EU to lift political, economic, and cultural restrictions on Turkish Cypriots. He argued that such steps would demonstrate a genuine commitment to the peace process on the island.

  • Edek Leader Confirms Support for Government Despite Cabinet Reshuffle Backlash

    Edek Leader Confirms Support for Government Despite Cabinet Reshuffle Backlash

    edek leader — Edek leader Nikos Anastasiou has firmly ruled out the possibility of his party withdrawing support for the government, despite significant unrest following President Nikos Christodoulides’ recent cabinet reshuffle. This statement comes mere hours after Edek expressed its dissatisfaction with the changes made on Friday night, indicating a rift that could have implications for the government’s stability.

    • This proactive stance is indicative of Edek's desire to maintain its position within the government, despite the frustrations voiced by its members.

    Edek leader: Party’s Reaction to Reshuffle

    Following the reshuffle, Edek released a statement that articulated strong dissatisfaction with the six ministerial changes. Anastasiou stated, “We expected that the president … would see Edek in a better light,” reflecting the party’s disappointment.

    The reshuffle has prompted Edek to call an extraordinary meeting of its political bureau, scheduled for Sunday, to discuss the implications of these changes. Anastasiou clarified that although there was intense discussion surrounding the reshuffle, the issue of leaving the government was “never raised.”

    Communication with the President

    In light of the turmoil, Anastasiou has reached out to President Christodoulides to formally express his concerns regarding the cabinet reshuffle. He has indicated that he plans to contact the President again on Monday to request a meeting to delve deeper into the matter.

    This proactive stance is indicative of Edek’s desire to maintain its position within the government, despite the frustrations voiced by its members.

    Historical Context of Edek’s Political Maneuvering

    The history of Edek’s involvement in government is marked by periods of support followed by withdrawals. In the past, Edek has both supported and then subsequently exited the governments of Glafcos Clerides and Demetris Christofias. This history raises questions about the durability of its current alliance with Christodoulides, especially in light of the recent reshuffle.

    The latest statement from Edek highlights a sentiment of “lack of respect” from the government, asserting that their contributions have not been adequately appreciated. This claim may signal deeper fractures in the coalition, depending on how negotiations progress.

    Impacts of the Reshuffle on Ministerial Positions

    The reshuffle primarily affected Edek’s representation, which remains limited to one ministerial position: Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou. Prior to the reshuffle, there were concerns that Panayiotou might lose her role due to controversial comments made during a wildfire crisis in Limassol that resulted in tragic fatalities. Her remarks about preventing the fire drew criticism, which may have influenced the reshuffle decisions.

    Also notable is the demotion of Marios Hartsiotis, the outgoing justice minister, who was reassigned from his position to become the “commissioner of the presidency.” This change has raised eyebrows, given Hartsiotis’s previous comments during the wildfire incident, which some deemed insensitive.

    Reactions from Other Political Parties

    While Edek has voiced its discontent, other political factions have responded more favourably to the reshuffle. Diko leader Nicholas Papadopoulos expressed his readiness to collaborate with the newly appointed ministers, stating, “We are here to support the implementation of the government’s programme.”

    In contrast, Dipa celebrated the reshuffle, as it welcomed new cabinet members, including Marinos Mousiouttas, who will take on the role of labour minister. Dipa’s statement reflected optimism about the potential for increased stability and efficiency within the government.

    However, the opposition party Akel has been critical of the reshuffle, suggesting it does not enhance governmental efficiency and accusing Christodoulides of prioritising political manoeuvring ahead of the 2028 presidential elections.

    Future Implications for Edek and the Government

    The extraordinary meeting scheduled for Sunday may provide insight into Edek’s future direction and its relationship with the government. If the party decides to maintain its support, it will be crucial for Anastasiou and his colleagues to address their grievances effectively with President Christodoulides.

    As Edek navigates this tumultuous period, the implications of their decisions could reverberate throughout the coalition, potentially impacting the broader political landscape. The next steps taken by Edek will be closely watched, especially by those within the government and the opposition alike.

  • Cyprus cabinet: Nikos Christodoulides Welcomes Four New Faces to Cyprus’ Cabinet

    Cyprus cabinet: Nikos Christodoulides Welcomes Four New Faces to Cyprus’ Cabinet

    cyprus cabinet — cyprus cabinet — Four new names are set to join Cyprus’ cabinet on Monday as part of a significant reshuffle announced by President Nikos Christodoulides. This change will see six ministerial positions altered, though the newcomers lack previous ministerial experience. However, they are prominent figures in the island’s public sphere.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Cyprus cabinet: Marinos Mousiouttas Takes on Labour

    The most prominent addition is Marinos Mousiouttas, who will assume the role of Labour Minister. At 61, Mousiouttas has been a continuous member of parliament since 2016, representing the Democratic Party (Diko) initially before co-founding the Democratic Party of Progress (Dipa).

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    He is the son of a founding member of Diko and has a solid educational background, having studied business administration at the New York State University. His career in civil service includes roles in both the finance and labour ministries, and he has also held a leadership position as chair of the House transport committee.

    Costas Fitiris Steps into Justice

    Taking the helm as Justice Minister is Costas Fitiris, who brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as chief marina officer of the Ayia Napa marina, a position he has held since 2019. At 65 years old, Fitiris has a long-standing military background, having served for 40 years in the National Guard, where he achieved the rank of rear admiral.

    Neophytos Charalambides to Oversee Health

    Newly appointed Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides has a strong local government background, having served as a city councillor in Limassol for Diko since 2011. At 47, he is a qualified lawyer, having been admitted to the Cyprus bar in 2004, and his legal expertise will likely influence his approach to health policy.

    Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina Advocates for Social Welfare

    The role of Social Welfare Deputy Minister will be filled by Clea Hadjistefanou-Papaellina, who previously chaired the NGO “Foni,” which focuses on children’s rights and combating sexual abuse. Her extensive academic background includes studies at prestigious institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Athens, where she earned her doctorate in physical education.

    This reshuffle not only alters the cabinet’s composition but also reflects President Christodoulides’ strategy to invigorate governance with fresh perspectives, even from individuals without prior ministerial roles.

  • 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.