In Limassol, the Police were put on alert following the fall of a minor from a tower. Strong police forces have cordoned off the area, and forensic experts are expected to arrive. The fall occurred from a significant height, and authorities are investigating the situation.
President Trump stated that the decision regarding the proposed 30-day ceasefire now lies with President Putin, following Ukraine's acceptance of the agreement. He warned that if Russia continues the war, it could face severe sanctions. However, he expressed a desire for peace and remains cautiously optimistic about the talks. Trump also mentioned that U.S. officials are currently on their way to Russia for further discussions.
President Christodoulides addressed the Cyprus issue ahead of the informal conference in Geneva. His main goal is to pave the way for the resumption of talks that were paused in 2017. He also highlighted the international collaborations advanced during his administration, emphasizing the importance of security and statehood. The current situation cannot define Cyprus's future.
President Christodoulides announced a reduction in VAT for residential electricity from 19% to 9%. This decision is part of a broader policy aimed at lowering taxes and making energy cheaper. Additionally, the government is taking steps to exploit natural gas and improve energy efficiency. Subsidies for energy upgrades and the installation of smart meters are also planned.
Nikos Christodoulides presented the annual report of his government for 2024, outlining 70 actions across 11 policy areas. He focused on issues such as the economy, society, education, and Cyprus, committing to a viable solution for the Cyprus problem. He also emphasized the importance of participatory democracy and transparency. These actions aim to keep citizens informed about the government's progress.
The European Commission announced the imposition of countermeasures on imports of American products in response to new tariffs imposed by Washington on steel and aluminum. These tariffs, affecting imports worth 28 billion euros, are deemed 'unjustified' and disrupt transatlantic trade. The EU plans to implement the countermeasures by mid-April while remaining willing to negotiate a solution with the US. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need to protect consumers and businesses.
The Belgian director Jan Fabre responds to the reactions caused by his upcoming visit to Cyprus, following his 2022 conviction for sexual harassment. In an interview, he discusses the boundaries of art and ethics, expressing concern about cancel culture and misinformation. He argues that artistic freedom is being restricted in an increasingly conservative society. Lastly, he emphasizes the importance of ensuring a safe working environment for his team.
Ongoing investigations are being conducted by the police in Limassol regarding a shooting incident at a beauty institute. Unknown individuals shot at the glass front of the establishment, causing significant damage. Evidence has been collected from the scene, and surveillance footage is being examined. The owner of the institute has already provided a statement to the police.
The legislation governing private schools has gaps and omissions, leading to tuition increases and safety issues. The Education Committee is processing the complaints and exploring changes to the law. Parents and school representatives are concerned about the consequences of violations, which may directly affect students. The Ministry of Education has initiated relevant investigations.
The case of a human trafficking and prostitution ring is ongoing, with new arrests and a court trial set for October 2024. A key suspect is a 49-year-old Nigerian known as 'School boy', who is believed to have transported the victims. Investigations reveal that the ring coordinates the exploitation of women from Nigeria, extending its connections to that country. The accused face serious charges, including human trafficking and sexual exploitation.
An 18-year-old student is hospitalized with serious injuries following a car accident in Limassol. Her condition is critical but stable, while the other two passengers sustained minor injuries. Police are investigating the possibility of excessive speed as a cause of the accident. The driver tested negative for alcohol and drugs.
The Administrative Court ruled in favor of a citizen to receive medication through the GHS with a prescription from a doctor who is not contracted with the System. This decision is expected to lead to significant changes in the GHS's operation, as there have already been warnings about potential issues. The GHS Authority is studying the ruling and expected to determine the next steps. The Court stated that the GHS Authority's interpretation of the prescription process was incorrect.
Lefteris Kyriakou has been elected as the new President of the Cyprus Police Association following an election. This election involved 25 members of the central committee who voted for the new officials. The new president thanked his colleagues for their trust and emphasized his commitment to improving working conditions. His goal is to work collectively for problem-solving and modernizing the police force.
The Cabinet has decided to provide the report of the criminal investigators to the Attorney General and the family of Thanasis Nikolaou. This decision aims to ensure transparency and adherence to the Constitution. The report indicates that Thanasis died due to criminal activity, but no perpetrators have been identified. The family will have the opportunity to review the report with their lawyers.
The Education Committee of Parliament was stirred by remarks from the head of OELMEK, Dimitris Taliadoros, regarding legislation on private schools. Taliadoros claimed that some committee members may be 'compromised' by private schools. This led to strong reactions from MPs, who demanded an apology from the Ministry of Education. The situation escalated as the need for transparency and ethics in decision-making was emphasized.
Andriana Nicolaou, mother of Thanasis Nicolaou, accuses specific individuals, including forensic scientist Panikos Stavrianos and police and military officers, of covering up her son's murder. She claims that those responsible have been free for 20 years and expresses concern about how the case will be handled by the Attorney General. She demands justice and restoration of her son's memory. She emphasizes the need for a separation of powers regarding the Attorney General's role.
The three-member Investigative Committee for the Takata airbag issue has officially started its investigation process. The inquiry will focus on the distribution and recall of vehicles in Cyprus from the EU and third countries. The committee has a three-month deadline to complete its investigation and submit its report to the Attorney General. Key objectives include assessing the legality of the procedures and identifying responsibilities.
Yesterday, a rescue operation took place in Alambra when a person fell into a four-meter deep septic pit due to the cover collapsing. The Fire Department quickly responded and used special equipment to perform the rescue. The individual was brought to safety and transported to the emergency department in Nicosia as a precaution.
On Tuesday night, a car accident occurred in Limassol involving three students from TEPAC. The vehicle, driven by a 19-year-old, crashed into a pole, resulting in injuries to the passengers. One 18-year-old female student sustained serious injuries and was transferred to the General Hospital of Nicosia. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
President Christodoulides aims to reverse negative perceptions during his upcoming televised interview. The interview will last 90 minutes and will cover topics such as the Cyprus issue, foreign policy, and the economy. The goal is to responsibly inform society about the government's achievements and create a clear image of actions taken. The event will begin with a 15-minute address followed by a Q&A session with journalists.
As the parliamentary elections approach, polls reveal concerning scenarios for political parties. All traditional parties are experiencing a decline in support, while ELAМ is seeing an increase in acceptance. A significant percentage of voters remain undecided or are likely to cast invalid votes. Party cohesion is low, leaving the election outcome uncertain as the elections draw near.
The government is facing challenges due to seven legislative proposals regarding photo enforcement that will be examined in Parliament. Some proposals are deemed unconstitutional, while the government seeks to accept an extension for the payment of fines. A meeting at the Ministry of Transport aimed to find solutions before the system, which has cost citizens €36 million, becomes entangled. There is a consideration to abolish certain violations to simplify the process for citizens.
The president of the Famagusta District Municipality Organization, Giannis Karousos, stated that the reforms in local governance will not reduce costs for citizens. Instead, there has been a 7.5% increase in water charges to cover costs and make necessary investments. Additionally, there are plans to implement uniform fees across all municipal divisions. The organization is struggling with a high water loss rate, reaching 37%.
The Emergency and Accident Departments are being redesigned to improve service quality for citizens. New Category 2 emergency units will be established in state hospitals to handle less critical cases. Procedures are advancing with the involvement of the Ministry of Health and other organizations to create a joint plan. The new units will operate independently from existing emergency departments, focusing on non-urgent cases.
The Cyprus Transmission System Operator notes that applications for Renewable Energy Projects (REPs) exceed the country's target by four times. Projects are expected to contribute to the 1080 MW needed by 2030. However, there are concerns regarding the speed of project completion and their impact on the agricultural sector. The Minister of Energy emphasizes the importance of energy storage for managing production and consumption.
The Electricity Authority decided the urgent need for new generators at the Dhekelia station to increase electricity production. The electricity supply issue may worsen in 2026 and beyond. The Authority will continue negotiations with bidders despite the cancellation of the initial tender. This decision is expected to lead to an agreement by March or April.
Ersin Tatar is traveling to Ankara for a seminar ahead of the informal conference in Geneva. He emphasizes his readiness for negotiations if his terms regarding direct flights, trade, and contacts are accepted. He stresses the importance of sovereign equality and his desire not to maintain the current status quo. However, he expresses concerns about the failure to fulfill promises made to the Turkish Cypriots.