A citizen who was convicted for participating in a protest against pandemic measures was acquitted by the Court of Appeals. The decision highlighted the lack of proportionality in measures that banned public gatherings while allowing other activities. The citizen was protesting against government immigration policies and the detention of asylum seekers. The Court found that the restrictions violated the right to free expression. This case raises questions about the implementation and necessity of restrictive measures.
A new strong earthquake measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale struck Afghanistan, following a recent deadly quake of 6.1 that resulted in over 2,200 fatalities. The earthquake was particularly felt in the province of Kunar, which suffered significant damage. The 6.0 magnitude quake resulted in 2,205 deaths and 3,640 injuries. Authorities highlighted the need for assistance in the affected areas. The situation remains critical as people cope with the aftermath.
The Minister of Education, Athina Michailidou, will visit high schools in Nicosia tonight in preparation for the start of the new school year. This visit aims to monitor the practice of 'pinta', where students stay overnight at schools. The Ministry, in collaboration with the police and school principals, is overseeing the situation to prevent any issues. Students have been advised to visit their schools without causing disruptions. They are also reminded to return safely home in the morning.
The political scene in Nicosia is changing as George Pamboridis and Anastasia Anthousi are set to return as candidates in the upcoming elections. Anthousi is expected to confirm her candidacy tomorrow, while Pamboridis will announce his decision on Saturday. Their presence in the candidate list could significantly impact developments. Another announcement for a candidate from Limassol is also expected. All candidates for DISY are anticipated to be revealed by Tuesday.
The investigation by the European Public Prosecutor's Office relates to possible criminal offenses concerning the electrical interconnection project between Cyprus and Crete, involving politically exposed persons in Cyprus and officials from the European Commission. Allegations have been made that officials promoted the EuroAsia Interconnector investment project for personal gain through securing substantial funding from the EU. The funding reached 658 million euros, the largest ever allocated for such projects. The circumstances surrounding the approval of an investment proposal by a private entity lacking necessary expertise are also being examined. This investigation could have significant political implications in Cyprus and the European Union.
The Court upheld the sentence of Dimitris Mamalikopoulos, who has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for attempted murder. The charges stemmed from crimes committed in 2019 and 2020. Mamalikopoulos is already serving a life sentence for a serious murder from 2012. The judge noted that the total sentence is high but justified due to the seriousness of the crimes. The accused represented himself in court.
A car struck a group of pedestrians in Berlin, injuring several children. Their caregiver was seriously injured. The driver was arrested on the spot. Police believe the incident is not related to terrorism, and the investigation is ongoing. Emergency services stated that the accident was accidental.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office has confirmed that an investigation is underway for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project. Currently, no further details are provided to avoid jeopardizing the investigation. President Nikos Christodoulides was informed by the Legal Service about the initiation of the investigation regarding potential criminal offenses. A spokesperson for the European Public Prosecutor's Office stated that public updates will only be made when there are results to announce.
The Rapid Patient Movement Clinics have shown positive results in addressing healthcare issues. At Nicosia General Hospital, 3,530 patients were served, while at Paphos General Hospital, the number reached 1,503. At Larnaca General Hospital, 381 patients were treated, and in Ammochostos, there were over 470 patients. These clinics assist in providing quicker services to citizens and reduce pressure on emergency departments. The Government Spokesman emphasized that this policy aims to enhance the public health system.
Today, a total of €44.36 million is being paid out to 4,524 affected depositors and bondholders. Government Spokesman K. Letymbiotis stated that these payments reflect the government's political will to support impacted citizens. The compensation process is proceeding smoothly, and beneficiaries are encouraged to register their details on the online platform. The aim is for all eligible recipients to receive the amounts they are entitled to. This payout is a clear indication of the government's commitment.
The Ministry of Interior announced a new framework for building permits in areas affected by the wildfires of July 23, 2025. The licensing process is being expedited to facilitate immediate reconstruction in the impacted areas. Property owners eligible for government support will be able to submit applications with fewer requirements. Different procedures apply to unauthorized constructions and buildings without permits. The Ministry urges the Planning Authorities to ensure swift and effective processing.
A conflict between two former roommates led to a serious stabbing incident in Limassol. The 23-year-old suspect, an asylum seeker from Cameroon, admitted to stabbing his 28-year-old former roommate from Congo out of anger. The injured man is hospitalized in serious condition due to his wounds. The suspect has been remanded in custody for five days, and the knife used in the incident has been collected as evidence. The incident occurred early in the morning near the victim's residence.
President Christodoulides announced his intention to inform citizens directly about government decisions. Following the destructive wildfires, the government is compelled to demonstrate swift responses. Important efforts are being made for the restoration of affected areas and financial support for victims. Payments to beneficiaries for damages have exceeded 95%. The government’s commitment to transparency is central to the President's communication strategy.
In Limassol, a 23-year-old has been arrested for attacking a 28-year-old with a sharp object. The 28-year-old is hospitalized in serious but stable condition, suffering from injuries to his hand and chest. The incident occurred in the early hours, prompting police action and ongoing investigations. The victim's condition is stable, and inquiries are continuing.
Significant developments regarding SOPAZ and the State Exhibition are underway for the enhancement of Nicosia. The Municipality plans to transform SOPAZ into a modern conference and exhibition center, aiming to improve the area. There is already interest from strategic investors for the project. Additionally, discussions around the State Exhibition are leaning towards the creation of a large Metropolitan Park. These changes are expected to improve infrastructure and accessibility in the region.
Nikos Christodoulides emphasizes his government's center-right position and urges DISY to clarify its stance on key issues. The president distinguishes his policies from AKEL, highlighting the ambiguity in the relationship between DISY and the government. A recent DISY gathering confirmed political support for Christodoulides. Pindaros appears to struggle to influence this relationship. Major issues remain unresolved, leaving DISY voters in a state of uncertainty.
The Ministry of Transport and the Road Transport Department are working on resolving the issue with vehicle licenses, as many citizens renewed their licenses but faced system errors. Despite their renewals, the system did not accept them, leading to citizens driving without a license. Minister Vafeadis stated that he may contact the Attorney General to prevent fines from being imposed on the citizens. Those affected are advised to reach out to the Road Transport Department for assistance. There has been public outrage over this issue, particularly as drivers have recently been fined for expired licenses.
The Cypriot government stated it will not make payments to ADMHEE unless its obligations are met. There is significant conflict between the Cypriot and Greek sides regarding the funding of an interconnection project. The Cypriot Finance Minister remarked that taxpayers should not pay for a project that shows sustainability issues. Despite the President's assurance that there is no rift in relations, the situation suggests ongoing disagreements. The future of the case appears uncertain.
There are currently 6,000 cases in court related to unpaid fines from traffic cameras. The Ministry of Transport suggests new procedures for informing drivers via SMS and email, making it mandatory to notify them. Criminal prosecution for non-compliance will be a last resort, with penalties often being double or triple. There are issues concerning liability in cases of rented vehicles, as companies express concerns about identifying offending drivers. The legislation being amended aims to facilitate the handling of traffic violations more effectively.
Mihalis Vorkas, the president of the Cyprus Bar Association, raised crucial issues about the delivery of justice in Cyprus during a parliamentary committee meeting. He highlighted concerns about delays in judicial processes, noting that a case can take up to 17 years to conclude. Additionally, he pointed out poor conditions in court buildings and a lack of staff. Vorkas's remarks sparked discussions aimed at improving procedural law. The issue of public trust in justice was also a focal point.
The arrest of Turkish Cypriot lawyer Murat Metin Haki is interpreted as an unlawful act by the authorities in the occupied territories. Haki represented a couple of Greek Cypriots in a compensation case for the loss of use of their property. This arrest is linked to the efforts of the pseudo-authorities to respond to legitimate procedures in the Republic of Cyprus. The Greek Cypriots are accused of entering private property without permission, and the legal proceedings will continue in 2025. Haki has a strong reputation as a lawyer and works with legal offices in the Republic of Cyprus.