Christos Orphanides announced that he will not seek re-election in Larnaca. This decision relates to his concerns about the potential transfer of Andreas Apostolou to DIKO. The Executive Office meeting discussed the relationship between DIKO and the government, emphasizing the need for the party's role to be recognized. DIKO's president, Nikolas Papadopoulos, highlighted the importance of the upcoming elections for the party. Processes for announcing candidates are expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Major General Emmanouil Theodorou is selected by the Greek Ministry of National Defense to become the new chief of the National Guard. Minister of Defense Vasilis Palma will propose his name to the Cabinet for formal approval. Theodorou is expected to be retired in Greece to take on new duties in Cyprus. Other names were discussed, but Theodorou appears to be the most likely candidate. He has significant experience, having served as the commander of the Greek Force in Cyprus in 2014.
Approximately 48,430 documents were found at the house of a chief prison officer during an investigation into another matter. The Supreme Court rejected his request for the return of these documents. The documents include government files and other classified materials. The large volume of these documents raised concerns about potential criminal offenses. The documents were seized and will undergo further examination by the police.
Khalil al-Hayya is a prominent figure in Hamas and serves as the deputy head of its political bureau in Gaza. He plays a key role in negotiations with Israel and has connections with Iran. Today, Israeli forces targeted Qatar, where al-Hayya is located, a move that may shift the regional balance. This attack is risky and could have repercussions for Israel's relationship with Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The article focuses on the political implications of the situation and international relations.
The interest submission process for the Democratic Rally's electoral list is ongoing. In Nicosia and Limassol, there is a high level of interest, while in Larnaca, the situation is more challenging as the number of interested candidates is lower than the available positions. The leadership in Larnaca is seeking to find an unopposed candidate. The situation will become clearer after the electoral list closes on October 2. Depending on the seats, the number of candidates who will remain off the list will change.
Karolina Pelendritou, a Paralympic swimmer from Cyprus, faced issues when a taxi driver refused to transport her along with her guide dog. The driver claimed he was worried the dog might dirty the vehicle. The incident sparked strong reactions on social media, with SAVA stating that the driver would face consequences. Pelendritou, known for her athletic achievements, emphasized that guide dogs have the right to be transported. This incident highlights the need for awareness about the rights of people with disabilities.
Cypriot MEPs criticized the European Union for failing to provide assistance during deadly wildfires. They highlighted the responsibilities of the Cypriot government and called for the immediate establishment of a European firefighting base. They stressed that austerity policies have undermined the effectiveness of services. Cyprus has been severely affected by climate change, and they demand practical support from the EU. The MEPs emphasized the need for permanent European safety and prevention measures.
Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis stated that no family member is involved in the Greece-Cyprus electricity interconnection project. He claimed that a false article implying otherwise was published, accusing the media outlet of defamation. Gerapetritis emphasized that there is no ongoing judicial investigation regarding these matters. He condemned the timing of the publication, stating it is linked to efforts to obstruct the project. He promised legal actions against those responsible for the misleading information.
A letter from former President Nicos Anastasiades is set to be used as defense in a citizenship case. Two witnesses, the secretary who handled the letter and the former director of the Parliament, are slated to testify. The purpose of the letter was to attract foreign investors. The proceedings will continue next Thursday, as the witnesses were unable to attend. The court has already determined that there is a prima facie case against the accused.
A 23-year-old Syrian was arrested for serious crimes, including attempted murder and arson of vehicles in Pyla. During investigations, five firearms and large quantities of drugs were found in a mobile structure in Deneia. The young man is believed to have a significant role in a criminal network that is being directed from the Central Prisons. Police continue their investigations and await the results of ballistic tests. Investigators are also looking into the network's connections to other criminal activities.
The District Court of Nicosia ruled that the recording of a speeding offense by a mobile camera was legal. The defendant, who contested his guilt, did not provide evidence regarding who was driving the vehicle. The court emphasized that the vehicle's photograph met legal requirements. Additionally, the process of issuing the fine was deemed lawful. The defendant was found guilty and convicted.
Giorgos Gerapetritis, the Greek Foreign Minister, stated that high electricity prices in Cyprus may be influenced by private interests that want to maintain the status quo. He emphasized that the electricity interconnection project is vital for Cyprus and should continue. Gerapetritis declared that there would be no concessions regarding national sovereignty rights. Greece aims to support the project and will collaborate with the responsible company in 2025. The only difference with Turkey concerns the demarcation of maritime zones.
The submission of interest for participation in the Democratic Rally's candidate list has started this morning. Two significant candidates, George Pamboridis and Anastasia Anthousi, arrived at Pindarou. The submission deadline remains open until 13:00. The online submission method is popular among candidates. Only candidates with settled dues for the years 2025 and 2026 can apply.
A group of youths attacked a private guard at the 3rd Primary School of Ypsonas, throwing incendiary devices at him and causing burns to his face. The guard was taken to the hospital following the attack. The president of the School Board labeled the incident as an attempted murder. The situation regarding vandalism in schools seems to have worsened, with both parents and police being held accountable. Authorities are urged to take action before more serious accidents occur.
The Audit Office published a report regarding the grants provided by the Ministry of Finance in 2023. Improvements were noted in the process, but problems remain in the evaluation and approval of requests. There were instances where the recommendations from the experts varied, and the Minister signed off without always providing justification for decisions. Many grants were found to be non-compliant, and some expenses should have been charged to specific budget appropriations. These observations indicate that despite improvements, the system needs further management and legal oversight.
PASYD seeks a teleworking allowance for public employees as there is currently no legal framework governing it. The request was raised during a session of the parliamentary Finance Committee. Public employees want to have similar rights as those in the private sector. Trade unions support the bill but express concerns regarding its implementation details. Cyprus plans to adopt a hybrid model for teleworking, with conditions to be defined by the Cabinet.
George Pamboridis is returning to politics with a candidacy in DISY, declaring that the party is his 'home.' His return sparks intense discussion and speculation about DISY's future. He maintains good relationships with key party members and emphasizes his desire to bring back part of the party's history. He highlights the importance of action to restore the party. Pamboridis appears to be taking initiatives to support DISY during a critical period.
The Ministry of Interior has serious reservations about the proposed amendments to the law regulating the issuance of permits for the installation of photovoltaic systems and energy storage solutions. It notes that the suggested automatic issuance of permits lacks sufficient criteria and poses risks regarding safety and site planning. Additionally, the need for a strict framework is emphasized before adopting such proposals. The Ministry is in the process of issuing a related decree that will define the terms and conditions for these installations. It is expected that the proposed amendments will need to be adequately structured to ensure safety and operational requirements.
The police discovered a stash in Kokkinochoria filled with weapons and drugs linked to a criminal network of Syrians. Evidence suggests that organized criminal attacks were planned in Larnaca and other areas. Several recent criminal activities, including attempted murder and arsons, are being investigated. Authorities believe the network's actions significantly impact society. The investigation continues to uncover any further connections to organized crime.
The parliamentary Commerce Committee is revisiting the charges imposed by distribution companies for replacing defective Takata airbags. These charges can reach up to €150 as administrative fees, causing concern and delays among vehicle owners. The Ministry of Commerce faces challenges regarding the interpretation of the term 'economic entity' in European legislation related to these charges. A Consumer Protection Agency investigation revealed regulatory gaps, as it cannot impose measures against distributors. Additionally, a company in Cyprus asserts its compliance with safety standards and its inability to disclose contract details.
The government's proposed amendments for separating the dual role of the Attorney General are progressing despite reservations. A significant meeting took place between the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General to discuss the criteria for reviewing the Attorney General's decisions. Constitutional experts hold opposing views regarding the constitutional amendment. Evangelos Venizelos expresses that the changes are constitutionally acceptable, while other legal experts have objections. The Parliament is expected to review the related bills.
Labor Minister Yiannis Panayiotou presented proposals for the modernization of the A.T.A., which includes the universal extension of A.T.A. allocations to all employees. Despite the government's efforts to prevent strikes, trade unions decided to proceed with a general strike. The proposals include fairer compensation for low-income workers and safeguards to ensure competitiveness. However, the government did not engage in consultations due to the announcement of strikes. Trade unions stated that the proposals were insufficient and called on workers to participate en masse in the upcoming strike.