Mihalis Stamatoyanni, a former shot put champion, was vindicated in court after 10 years due to doping linked to a defective dietary supplement. The Athens Court of Appeals awarded him compensation for the moral and financial damages he suffered from his two-year ban. The ruling stated that the athlete was unaware of the banned substance in the product. Stamatoyanni expressed gratitude to his supporters during this challenging time.
In the Joker draw on January 12th, the winning numbers were 9, 15, 20, 24, 29 and the Joker number 8. One or more winners will share at least €11,200,000. The draw generated a lot of interest among players. Winners will be announced soon.
The devastating fires in Los Angeles have sparked strong reactions from residents who accuse celebrities of wasting water. Stars like Kim Kardashian, Sylvester Stallone, and Kevin Hart are criticized for ignoring conservation rules, while they claim to comply. Residents argue that the wealthy can afford fines and continue wasting resources. The situation has worsened, with the fires resulting in loss of life and destruction of land.
Forensic doctor Nikolaos Charalambous has been placed on leave following an incorrect diagnosis regarding the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani. Initially assessed as non-criminal, the Cabinet decided to appoint an investigator to examine potential disciplinary offenses. The Minister of Health will also request the forensic doctor’s suspension until the investigation is completed.
President Christodoulides was briefed during the informal Cabinet meeting about the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani linked to a police member. The Ministers of Health and Justice reported their actions for clarifying the case. An independent criminal investigator has been appointed to oversee the investigations and ensure transparency. Investigations are ongoing with the support of the appointed criminal investigator, Ninos Kekkos.
Former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis is portrayed in numerous articles as a flawless politician, which is inaccurate. He failed to address corruption within PASOK and mishandled national issues, such as the Imia crisis. However, his contribution to Cyprus's accession to the European Union is acknowledged. His image is incomplete without considering his mistakes.
The Attorney General appointed a criminal investigator to oversee the investigations into the death of a 24-year-old from Pakistan. The appointed investigator is Senior Legal Advisor Ninos Kekkos. This decision came after a briefing from the Chief of Police. The aim is to ensure transparency and independence in the investigations.
Today, three members of the MMAAD were summoned for interrogative testimony by the Nicosia Police, regarding the fatal shooting that resulted in the death of a 24-year-old Pakistani. The police officers claimed they had to use their firearms in an attempt to stop vehicles allegedly involved in illegal trafficking. The death of the Pakistani was due to a bullet from a service weapon. Further information and clarification of the facts surrounding the incident are awaited.
Caroline Darian, daughter of Gisele Pelico, revealed that she suspects her father drugged her and that she may have been raped. In an interview with the BBC, she described the mental burden of being the daughter of both a victim and a perpetrator. She expresses a desire for her father to die in prison and has published a book titled 'I Will Never Call Him Dad Again'. The recent trial regarding the allegations has caused significant shock in France.
Foreign interest in buying properties in Cyprus remains high, with about 50% of purchases made by foreigners. Although sales in 2024 stayed similar to those in 2023, Larnaca emerged as a significant destination, showing an increase in sales. Low prices and development initiatives in the area are contributing to this growth. Cypriot buyers are also continuing to support the market.
The Greek Energy Minister's response to the Cypriot Energy Minister's letter is delayed due to the seriousness of the issues raised. However, Greek authorities have assured that the concerns of the Cypriot Republic regarding the Agreement will be largely addressed. In the recent meeting in Cairo, discussions indicated that the Agreement will undergo significant changes. If these assurances are realized, Cyprus will seriously consider its investment participation in the interconnection project.
A 20-year-old motorcyclist is in critical condition after a traffic accident in Limassol. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. and involved a collision with a car driven by an 18-year-old. The young man has suffered severe injuries and has been intubated in the intensive care unit. The traffic police are investigating the causes of the accident.
Electric car sales in Cyprus are declining as consumers prefer hybrid vehicles. Data shows a 5% increase in hybrid car sales in the first 11 months of 2024. In Cyprus, hybrid sales have surpassed those of gasoline vehicles. Government subsidies may boost sales of pure electric cars in 2024.
Competition between hotels and short-term rental accommodations is rising in Cyprus, with thousands of visitors choosing Airbnb and other platforms for their holidays. In the third quarter of 2024, overnight bookings increased by 16.9% compared to 2023, totaling 4,806,492 stays. Online platforms have recorded significant growth, surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels. Additionally, legislation requires businesses to be registered and licensed.
The wildfires in California continue to cause significant destruction, with 16 casualties reported so far and over 12,000 homes destroyed. Firefighters are struggling to control the large fronts around Los Angeles, while weather conditions are expected to worsen. Evacuation orders have been issued for 153,000 residents, and there has been an increase in crime in the burned areas. The situation remains critical, with authorities working to contain the flames.
Today, the weather will be mostly cloudy with isolated rain expected, particularly in the western part of the island. Winds will be southeast to southwest, of light to moderate strength. Tonight, rain will continue with a possibility of thunderstorms along the coast. Following this, the weather is expected to be mainly clear with a slight rise in temperature over the next few days.
Odysseas Michailidis is set to announce a new political initiative in Spring, with supporters from various fields. This proposal will focus on the 'restructuring' of the state and improving the economy without excluding differing opinions on the Cyprus issue. The objective is to combat corruption and pursue modernization reforms. This initiative will be the first since 1974 that doesn't prioritize the Cyprus issue.
Between February and March, the first examinations for promotion positions in the Public Service will take place, following the new reform. Candidates will need to achieve at least 40% in their evaluations. The promotion process was delayed due to the approval of service plans by Parliament. The Commission continues its procedures to select the organization that will conduct the exams.
Cyprus is intensively preparing for the presidency of the EU Council in the first half of 2026. Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna emphasized that Cyprus aims to promote the EU as a space for security and cooperation. The country seeks to enhance its geopolitical role in the Eastern Mediterranean and establish itself as a reliable partner in the EU. Preparations are progressing well, and Cyprus is ready for this significant challenge.
Our region is in a dangerous situation due to potential military conflicts and regime changes. Nicosia is acting behind the scenes to ensure communication with key players in the area. Relations with Turkey and Iran are critical, especially in light of the strategy being pursued by the new US President. Despite its size, the Republic of Cyprus maximizes its capabilities to maintain relations with all sides.