The Social Democrats in Germany retained power in the state of Brandenburg, winning with 31.1%, while the far-right Alternative (AfD) followed closely behind with 29.6%. The electoral battle was tight, with the AfD showing significant gains. The Christian Democrats and Greens saw their percentages drop, while the new Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance secured third place. These results shape the political landscape ahead of next year's federal elections.
The Technical Committee on Cultural Heritage has restored over 140 monuments in Cyprus since 2008. Its work promotes cooperation and mutual understanding between communities. The preservation of these monuments contributes to reconciliation and strengthens a culture of respect. The European Union provides significant financial support for the Committee's efforts.
In the local elections in Germany, exit polls indicate a lead for the Social Democratic Party (SPD) with 31%. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is in second place, just one percentage point behind. The Christian Democrats (CDU) follow with 12%, while the Greens are at the threshold of entry with 5%. The electoral law allows any party that wins at least one direct election to enter the parliament, regardless of their overall percentage.
Odysseas Michailidis, the former Auditor General, is exploring his professional options following his departure from public service. He intends to avoid working with individuals involved in scandals and is considering roles in corporate boards or collaborating on bid submissions. Additionally, he is thinking about writing a book about his experiences in the Audit Office, possibly focusing on the topic of golden passports. He is looking for opportunities that align with his ethical standards.
Ten individuals who were arrested for the incidents outside the Alpha Mega stadium were formally charged and released. The football match between Apollon and AEL did not take place due to the disturbances. Police investigations are ongoing, and the fan cards of those arrested have been canceled. They will be summoned to appear in court at a later date.
Hezbollah appears ready to escalate its responses against Israel. The deputy general secretary announced that they have entered a new phase in their ongoing conflict. Despite suffering setbacks, the organization remains strong with significant weaponry from Iran and Syria. Additionally, forces from Iraq have been involved, increasing tensions in the region.
George Loukaidis, speaking at the event, emphasized that the suspension of Odysseas Michailidis was the last straw, provoking anger and discontent in society. Citizens are protesting against corruption and the lack of justice, demanding accountability for those responsible for scandals. This reaction stems from a broad coalition of parties and citizens who want to defend democracy. The protest demonstrates the need for greater transparency and accountability in Cyprus's political life.
A large crowd gathered outside the presidential palace to protest the dismissal of Odysseas Michailidis. Despite bad weather conditions, the protesters held banners supporting the former Auditor General. The event also focused on the need to combat corruption. The participants demonstrated their determination to demand changes.
A British tourist couple needed help at a beach in Limassol after a fight. The 27-year-old woman went into the sea and drifted away, causing concern. Her 28-year-old partner called the police, and authorities responded quickly. In the end, they were assisted and managed to return safely to their hotel.
In Alabama, four people were shot dead and dozens injured during a series of shootings in Birmingham on Saturday night. Several armed individuals appeared to open fire on a crowd, with four injured individuals in serious condition. The police have made no arrests so far and are calling for witnesses to assist in the investigation. This incident highlights the increasing concern over gun violence in the United States.
Starting in 2025, public employees will be able to work under flexible working arrangements, pending the approval of relevant legislative proposals. This regulation aims to improve the work-life balance and modernize public service operations. The new system will include telework, reduced hours for specific categories of employees, and an extension of flexible working hours. Careful preparations will be made to ensure a smooth transition to these changes.
Two minors were arrested in Larnaca during the Anorthosis – Omonia match for the first division. The arrests occurred due to the firing of flares by organized fans. One minor was found with a flare, while the other had a flare along with fireworks. Both were released under conditions, and police are continuing their investigations.
Zacharias Koulias, the Chairman of the Audit Committee, warned that if a General Auditor is not appointed by September 25, he will take on the responsibility of appointing one himself. He also criticized the swift action of the Speaker of the Parliament regarding the dismissal of the previous General Auditor. Koulias suggested reducing the number of members in the Supreme Constitutional Court. His statements highlight the urgency and dynamics of the political developments concerning the Audit Service.
Today, a new yellow warning for strong thunderstorms is in effect in Cyprus due to unstable weather conditions. Isolated heavy thunderstorms are expected mainly in the mountainous and eastern parts of the island. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by hail, and winds are expected to strengthen. Temperatures will range around 30 degrees Celsius inland and in the northern coasts.
Nicolas Isaris from the European Commission states that funding for farmers and cheesemakers reaches approximately €63 million annually. He responds to claims made by cattle breeders regarding support for halloumi, clarifying that only €6.5 million from the total support is allocated to the occupied areas. He highlights that Turkish Cypriot producers do not receive direct funding and that the Commission provides assistance to meet EU standards. Cyprus remains part of the EU, although there is a lack of control in the northern part.
PASYD sees the proposed bill for teleworking in the Civil Service positively, but points out several areas that need improvement. They request clarifications on health and safety during telework and suggest that employers should train employees beforehand. Additionally, they emphasize the need for equal treatment of public employees working from the office or home. The General Secretary of PASYD hopes that the bill will be approved soon.
Minister of Labor Yiannis Panagiotou emphasized the importance of addressing undeclared work for the sustainability of social insurance. This issue is linked to two bills pending in Parliament: one for mandatory electronic registration of workers and another for stricter penalties. Between March and July 2024, inspectors identified 467 undeclared workers in 2,894 inspections. The majority of undeclared workers were from Third Countries.
Aristos Damianou criticizes President Christodoulides for the dismissal of Auditor General Odysseas Michailidis, arguing that the president's lack of leadership led to this negative outcome. He questions whether the president desired this outcome and if there were any avenues left for independence for the next Auditor General. Additionally, he harshly critiques the government's handling of corruption and economic issues, amidst speculation about future political developments. He emphasizes that discussions concerning reform should take place in a calmer environment.
Foreign usurpers are selling their properties and leaving the occupied areas following the prosecutions by the Cypriot government. The resulting insecurity is affecting the local economy. Most of those leaving are Russian, Ukrainian, and Israeli investors. Further arrests of usurpers are expected.