California is facing severe wildfires, resulting in at least 11 deaths and 13 missing persons. The Mexican government has sent firefighters to assist local authorities. Governor Gavin Newsom expressed gratitude to the Mexican government for their help, while the situation remains critical with new evacuation orders being issued.
Selahattin Demirtaş, a jailed Kurdish politician, expressed his support for Abdullah Öcalan and Devlet Bahçeli's initiative for a solution to the Kurdish issue. He emphasized the importance of transparency and public support for peacefully resolving matters. Demirtaş pointed out that the responsibility for progress lies with the government and parliament, urging everyone to avoid coercive rhetoric. He highlighted the need for a political struggle for democracy and human rights.
The police confirmed that the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani in Strovolos is linked to an incident involving gunfire during an attempt to apprehend suspects. An autopsy revealed a wound caused by a police service weapon. Additionally, a suitcase containing documents related to foreign individuals was found, which may be connected to organized crime. The case is still under investigation by the authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the need for an objective presentation of the situation in Cyprus, regarding violations by the occupying army. It highlights issues like the imposition of new faits accomplis and the equation of unequal incidents. It also welcomes the UN Secretary-General's efforts for negotiations on the Cyprus issue while acknowledging concerns over Turkish actions in the area. The Ministry will collaborate with the Peacekeeping Force to achieve a fair resolution.
A teacher in Alimos is accused of harassing underage female students by asking them to sit on his lap and sending inappropriate messages. The 52-year-old denies the charges, claiming he only exchanged messages with one of his students. Testimonies reveal his strange behavior and attempts to approach other female students as well. This case has caused shock within the community.
The case regarding the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani in Nicosia has led to significant developments, suggesting that the death may have resulted from a gunshot fired by a police officer. Authorities are examining the firearms used during the incident, and a 9 mm bullet was found in the corpse. The forensic expert's initial assessment is now under scrutiny for possible oversight. Additionally, a suitcase containing documents related to foreign individuals has been discovered and is currently being evaluated by the police.
A bipartisan initiative in the House of Representatives urges the new president Donald Trump to prioritize the Cyprus issue in U.S. foreign policy. The resolution condemns the ongoing illegal occupation of Cyprus by Turkey and calls for the withdrawal of Turkish troops. It also urges Turkey to comply with democratic principles and end its illegal activities in Cyprus's exclusive economic zone. The aim is to enhance cooperation on issues concerning U.S. citizens and the return of refugees.
A new case of online fraud is under investigation, involving a woman from Paphos who lost approximately €15,000. She communicated with an unknown woman via social media, who promised her an inheritance, leading her to send money. After communication abruptly ceased, various individuals claiming to be lawyers began requesting money for the supposed arrangement of the inheritance. The Police emphasize the importance of caution in online interactions.
Hunters and fishermen protested outside the Presidential Palace, demanding stricter penalties against poaching and immediate action from the government. They also requested the removal of the head of the Game Service and additional resources to combat poaching. If their demands are not met by February 1st, they warned of potential road blockades. Over the past 24 years, they have paid significant sums in license fees and seek clarification on how that money has been utilized.
Minister of National Defense Nikos Dendias announced urgent promotions and retirements within the Armed Forces. He emphasized the need for rationalization due to the restructuring of the military and the merging of bases, in line with the 2030 agenda. This decision reflects the necessity to adapt to modern geopolitical challenges. Notably, 47 senior officers, including prominent figures, were retired as part of this process.
Three trends are present regarding the election of the Archbishop in Cyprus: election solely by the Holy Synod, election by the people, and the current process that involves both. Archbishop George supports the third trend, stating it is the best as it ensures the people's participation alongside the Holy Synod's involvement. He points out that the Synod is aware of potential impediments and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the new Archbishop. Lastly, he acknowledges that the election topic has been raised by some Synod members, along with various perspectives.
In Cyprus, representatives of foreign companies are showing interest in investing in floating wind farms. The discussions are in the early stages, but Cyprus aims to follow the lead of other European countries in the renewable energy sector. The proposed development area is located 18 nautical miles off the coast of Larnaca and is included in Cyprus's Marine Spatial Planning. This industry is expected to attract significant investments and contribute to the country's sustainable development.
A 58-year-old motorcyclist was seriously injured in a traffic accident in Limassol. While riding his motorcycle, he lost control and collided with a pole. He was taken to Limassol General Hospital with multiple fractures and is currently intubated in intensive care. The Limassol Traffic Department is investigating the circumstances of the accident.
Jeremy Corbyn has requested the UK Foreign Office to reveal the role of RAF Akrotiri in the transfer of weapons to Israel. His letter addresses the use of F-35 fighter jets and warns the government about legal responsibilities regarding war crimes. Corbyn emphasized that the UK government is complicit in the genocide in Gaza. This issue has political implications and is related to recent visits by UK officials to the base.
Personal doctors in Cyprus are under tremendous pressure due to a surge in seasonal infections and flu cases. The situation is unprecedented, with over ten patients waiting for admission at the General Hospital of Nicosia. Doctors urge citizens to self-isolate when showing symptoms and to retest if initial results are negative. Okypy is making efforts to meet the increasing demands of patients.
This weekend, the first signs of consumer response to the sales are anticipated. Merchants hope for increased foot traffic, as previous weekday sales showed no significant change. Consumers are primarily focused on clothing and footwear, while the previous allure of sales appears to have diminished. Some voices in the market express disappointment regarding the worsening situation and inconsistency in the timing of discounts.
All political parties are planning to finalize their candidates for the 2026 parliamentary elections early, aiming to be as organized as possible. Specifically, the major parties aim to complete their lists by the end of Spring, while AKEL will follow certain procedures. At the same time, political strategies include election campaigns and social alliances, with concerns about performance in the upcoming elections. Readiness and proper organization are crucial for the success of each party.
Cyprus is promoting a strategic agreement between the European Union and Lebanon. Nikos Christodoulides visited Lebanon and had key meetings with leaders, including Joseph Aoun. He emphasized the need for international support for Lebanon and outlined plans for future cooperation. This visit holds historical and symbolic significance for Cyprus's diplomacy.
The adequacy of electricity supply in Cyprus is in doubt for the summer of 2025 due to delays in procuring new power generation units. The bids received by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) are more expensive than expected, raising concerns about meeting electricity needs. Moreover, installations and operations are not expected to be completed before 2025, intensifying fears of shortages. This situation highlights the urgent need for immediate solutions.
The case of 25-year-old Kulwinder Singh, who died during surgery after being admitted for a tooth abscess, remains unresolved nearly five years later. There are claims of medical malpractice, but the investigation is stalled due to a lack of coordination between the police and the health authority regarding the appointment of a medical expert. The autopsy was performed late, raising concerns about the medical system's quality. The deceased's family continues to seek justice and information about the circumstances of his death.
The demolition of the preserved buildings next to the Archdiocese triggered strong reactions, leading to the planning of their renovation. Archbishop Georgios has commissioned renovation works that are expected to be completed soon, creating new spaces for the church. Despite initial doubts, the process seems to be progressing favorably. However, allegations regarding the demolition raise concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage.
Cyprus is experiencing seasonal infections, with the flu causing four deaths. The Accident and Emergency Departments are under immense pressure, as patients wait for hours for admission. Nurses describe the situation as uncontrolled and call for more vaccinations and hiring additional staff. The understaffing in hospitals complicates the management of patients with infections.