Education Minister Athina Michailidou visited schools in Nicosia due to the 'pintas' phenomenon, where many students stay up all night before classes. She met with students, who were celebrating with dances and asked for photos with her. The situation is calm so far, and the Minister is in touch with officials for updates. She will also visit other high schools in the area.
Diko MP Chryssis Pantelidis expresses his disagreement with the government's initiative to establish an Audit Body through bills. He supports that the government under Odysseas Michailidis has modernized, while the reports from the Audit Service improve public service and boost citizens' trust. Pantelidis highlights the importance of oversight and transparency in public processes. Diko will thoroughly review the bill before taking a stand.
Some school buses in Cyprus are in unacceptable condition, putting students' lives at risk. Students reported issues such as lack of air conditioning and water entering the bus interior. The Minister of Transport promised that technical inspections would be completed by September and urged students to report any instance of vehicle mishaps. The lack of drivers is also a significant issue that the Transport Committee is addressing.
Cyprus will hold a meeting to discuss the electrical interconnection involving key stakeholders, including the Ministers of Energy and Finance. For the first time, there will be direct interactions with Nexans, the company constructing the cable. The government spokesperson stated that this project is of strategic importance for Cyprus and the EU. The government aims to ensure the interests of the Cypriot people with a responsible approach.
Intense negotiations are taking place in Brussels as Commission President Ursula von der Leyen prepares to announce the portfolios of the new commissioners. The European People's Party, to which Kostas Kadis belongs, prioritizes issues such as migration, economy, and support for Ukraine. There is fierce competition for portfolios related to EU budget controls. Kadis hopes to take on a portfolio related to his academic background and sustainable development.
The six trade unions of public hospital workers are condemning OKYPY for postponing a meeting regarding the collective agreement negotiations. The unions state that their patience has worn thin and that they will meet to decide on the next steps. They emphasize that negotiations have been ongoing for three years, leading to strikes. OKYPY is accused of delaying tactics and failing to respect social dialogue.
In Cyprus, 18 schools have been requisitioned under the 'Estia' plan to be used in case of emergency due to the situation in the Middle East. In two of these schools, in Larnaca and Limassol, beds have been placed for the care of the injured. Despite concerns about potential disruptions, authorities assured that these are temporary measures. The Minister of Education stated that the classrooms can still be used normally despite the presence of the beds.
A man's body in an advanced state of mummification was discovered in a wooded area north of Ayia Napa. The finding was made following a tip-off, and the scene has been secured by the police. Forensic doctors have arrived to examine the condition of the body. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.
Gisèle Pelicot, a victim of ongoing rape by her husband, testified in a trial that has shocked France. After 10 years of abuse, she revealed that police showed her video footage of the crimes committed against her, causing immense distress. She called for public acknowledgment of the truth and accountability from the accused. The case has garnered significant international attention.
The government has decided to withdraw the proposal that would replace multiple pensions for state officials with a one-time payment. Reactions from parties and the Audit Office led to new legislative proposals. Officials will have the option to renounce their pensions when they assume public office, based on their goodwill. The new regulation will not apply retroactively and will be implemented for future appointments after the 2026 elections.
A serious case of rape and abuse has been filed in the Nicosia Court against a doctor by his ex-girlfriend. The doctor faces 12 charges, including rape and kidnapping. The complaint was filed on August 24th, and the doctor was arrested the following day. The case is likely to be referred to the Criminal Court, with the accused remaining in custody until his trial.
Monk Avvakoum from the Monastery of Saint Avvakoum faces the penalty of defrocking due to accusations of deceiving faithful with false miracles. The charges include illegally pouring myrrh into a cross to make it appear as if it heals ailments. Although he initially confessed to his actions, he later retracted his confession. The case has multiple dimensions, including financial ties to Metropolitan Isaiah of Tamassos.
The family of Thanasis Nikolaou has approached the Supreme Constitutional Court, challenging the legality of forensic pathologist Panikos Stavrianos' request to overturn the report concerning the conscript. Lawyer Nikos Kleridis stated that Stavrianos has no legal right to make such a request. The case is set for re-examination on September 10. The Legal Service will not contest the pathologist's request, according to the Assistant Attorney General.
MP Christos Christofides has reported a potential black hole for money laundering in Cyprus. He pointed out that there is a lack of permanent customs officials at key entry and exit points, which facilitates suspicious financial activities. Specifically, customs officials only appear when certain conditions are met, leaving gaps in oversight. The Audit Office has already initiated an investigation into the allegations.
Russia, through President Putin, is now supporting Kamala Harris for the U.S. presidential elections. Putin previously preferred Joe Biden over Donald Trump, but is now viewing Harris positively. He also discussed the strategic situation regarding Ukraine, noting that Russian forces are successfully advancing in eastern Ukraine. He stated that it is Russia's duty to repel the invaders.
The family of National Guard member Thanasis Nikolaou has filed a challenge in the Supreme Constitutional Court questioning the legal standing of forensic doctor Panikos Stavrianos. The family's lawyer, Nikos Kliridis, stated that Stavrianos lacks the legal right to file a Certiorari petition. The case is set to be revisited on September 10, where all parties will present before the Court's Plenary. The Attorney General indicated that he would not contest Stavrianos' request despite identifying serious legal errors in the case.
Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis stated that the Auditor General used harsh terms against the government prior to their meeting. The government emphasizes the necessity of modernizing the Legal and Audit Services. Despite the criticism, the government seeks dialogue with relevant bodies to explain the legislative provisions. The meeting with the Auditor General is scheduled for September 23rd.
The meeting of the Council of Ministers regarding the electrical interconnection has not yet been confirmed. The decision will depend on the responses expected from involved parties in Cyprus, Greece, and Brussels. The financial risk from potential obstruction of the interconnection by Turkey is a top concern for the Cypriot government.
On September 18, the Supreme Constitutional Court will announce its decision regarding the Attorney General's request for the dismissal of the Auditor General. The decision will be made at 09:30, following intense arguments from both sides during the hearings. The Attorney General claims there was inappropriate behavior from the Auditor General. The Council is set to announce its decision within September.
In the recent US polls, Vice President Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump in Wisconsin and Michigan, while Trump is ahead in Arizona. Voters in Georgia, Nevada, and Pennsylvania appear divided, with a significant percentage still undecided. Pennsylvania and Georgia are key states in this electoral contest. The candidates are competing to secure crucial wins for the presidency.
The Police warns the KOP that it will have zero tolerance for incidents in the upcoming matches. Serious incidents occurred in two matches, involving assaults and flares being thrown. The Police expects the Federation to implement new disciplinary measures and emphasizes the importance of safety during the games. All involved parties are called to uphold their duties according to the law.
The Audit Service strongly opposes the recent decision of the Cabinet to establish an Audit Council. It believes this decision is an attempt to silence the Auditor General, as the Government seeks to appoint members of its own confidence. The Audit Service emphasizes that this change is not modernization but rather a regression aimed at controlling its reports. The Service intends to contest this move by all legal means.
The Audit Office strongly reacted to the recent decision by the Council of Ministers to establish an Audit Council, viewing it as an attempt to silence the Auditor General. The government plans to appoint members who will hold a majority in controlling the reports of the Audit Office. Despite claims of ‘modernization,’ the decisions appear to move away from a model widely followed by several countries. The Audit Office intends to oppose this move through legal channels.
The announcement of admission results for universities in Greece has affected student admissions at the University of Cyprus, where 287 new students have secured positions for the academic year. Most of these students come from candidates who were rejected in their first choice in Greece. Additionally, 56 students improved their positions by choosing different study programs. This period is particularly stressful for those who gained admission to Greek universities, as they need to quickly arrange their move and enrollment.
Large enterprises are securing the majority of bank loans this year, despite a rise in interest rates. There has been a significant increase in new loans, with net corporate loans over €1 million reaching €211.8 million in July. Bank of Cyprus continues to be the main lender in the economy, with increased lending due chiefly to business demand. Overall, lending shows a positive trend compared to previous years.
The recent announcement of admission results for universities in Greece clarified the situation for the University of Cyprus. This year, 287 new students secured placements, mainly due to rejections from initial holders. Additionally, 56 students improved their positions by opting for different programs. Students choosing to study in Greece now face the preparations for enrollment and finding accommodation.
The list of specialists who can visit patients at home under the GHS is expanding, providing greater support for bedridden patients. New specialties being added include general and plastic surgery, as well as doctors specializing in intensive care monitoring. Additionally, the compensation for these visits is increasing to €80 per visit. This initiative aims to better serve those who cannot easily travel for medical care.
Ersin Tatar stated that a solution to the Cyprus issue cannot exist without Turkey and emphasized the need for a two-state policy. He argued that Turkish Cypriots are an integral part of the Turkish nation and that Turkey plays a crucial role in maintaining their identity and values. Additionally, he described the presence of Turkish armed forces as a guarantee of safety for Turkish Cypriots. He noted that any permanent agreement must include the recognition of their rights as an autonomous state.
The police warns the KOP of zero tolerance for incidents from the next game week, stating that it will not guarantee the safety of the matches. Serious incidents from previous games are noted, despite prior warnings. The police expects the federation to implement new disciplinary measures and calls on all involved parties to fulfill their obligations. If compliance is not met, there will be consequences for the conduct of the matches.
During the trial for the double murder in Ypsonas, it was revealed that witnesses for the prosecution were approached and influenced by individuals associated with the defendants. The trial is closely monitored by relatives of the victims, with police present to prevent tensions. An eyewitness described the events he saw shortly after the murder, causing a stir during the proceedings. The prosecuting representative highlighted the pressures faced by witnesses to avoid testifying.
The Greek government is hesitant to approve the agreement for the electricity interconnection between Cyprus and Crete, despite an initial agreement made on Monday. The Cabinet meeting was postponed, and ministers did not address the issue as they seek clarifications. The government plans to conduct an urgent reassessment of the project's benefits for consumers. Decisions will be based on these clarifications to ensure that electricity bills are not adversely affected.