5 Minute News

The European Parliament held a discussion regarding the illegal detention of five Greek Cypriots by occupying authorities. Cypriot and Greek MEPs expressed their anger towards Turkey and the European Union for their positions. A resolution for the immediate release of the detainees is expected to be approved. Speakers highlighted the serious implications of Turkey's actions and urged the EU to respond. MEP Loukas Fourlas emphasized the necessity of practical solidarity with EU citizens.

The Council of Ministers has revoked golden passports from 28 foreign investors and their family members. This decision is based on evidence showing they did not meet the requirements for Cypriot citizenship. Since March 2023, a total of 41 decisions have been made regarding the revocation of citizenship. These actions are part of the government's strategy to improve Cyprus's international reputation. In total, 360 individuals have lost their Cypriot citizenship since 2021 due to the implemented program.

The president of the Cyprus Paraplegics Organization reported the death of a 62-year-old quadriplegic woman at the Larnaca General Hospital due to delays in medical care. The woman was brought to the hospital in the morning but was seen by a doctor 8 hours later. Her health deteriorated, and she ultimately suffered a cardiac arrest. The relatives have not received official information regarding the cause of death. The president emphasizes the need for improvement in the healthcare quality within the general healthcare system.

In the case of the 5 Greek Cypriots held in the occupied areas, three of them were released on bail. The charges included property violation and public disturbance. The accused appeared before the military court. The hearing for the other two will take place on Friday at the Famagusta District Court. The case is ongoing with further developments expected.

Tomorrow, Cyprus will face significant disruptions due to a nationwide strike called by the unions SEK, PEO, PASYDY, and DEOK. The protests will take place from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, affecting schools, airports, and public transport. Parents need to collect their children from schools by 11:00 AM as bus services will not operate. Over 50 flights are expected to experience delays or cancellations at Larnaca and Paphos airports. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for further information.

The Cyprus Bar Association expresses its opposition to the tax reform bills, warning that it will take legal action if they are adopted. The president of the Association claims that the proposed changes are superficial, leading to increased complexity and uncertainty for taxpayers. Furthermore, it argues that the bills violate the Constitution and the principle of the rule of law. The Association insists that it will not accept any distortion of institutional processes and prioritizes the protection of citizens' rights. If necessary, it will utilize all legal means to ensure transparency and justice.

There was significant disagreement in Parliament between the Government and the Attorney General regarding proposed changes to the Legal Service. The Attorney General expressed concerns about these changes, warning of potential political risks. The Government argues that the changes are necessary and have been in the works for some time. There is division among the members of Parliament about how to approach the separation of powers of the Attorney General. The discussion continues, with bills expected to be pushed forward regarding the oversight of the Attorney General's decisions.

A 22-year-old Greek Cypriot was arrested in Larnaca for converting his grandmother's house into a drug storage facility. During searches, cannabis, cocaine, and a significant amount of money believed to be from drug sales were found. The suspect had installed cameras to monitor the surroundings. Authorities are expected to investigate his background and search for his accomplices. The case is ongoing.

In Limassol, a 3.5-month-old infant is in critical condition due to severe brain hemorrhage. The parents have been arrested and face charges of causing serious bodily harm and abuse. Medical examinations suggest that the findings may indicate violent shaking, known as 'Shaken Baby Syndrome.' Initially, the parents claimed the child had not been injured, but later stated that it was hit by an apple. However, doctors concluded that the injuries do not align with that explanation.

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, announced the establishment of a new European firefighting base in Cyprus. This base will provide immediate support to EU countries and neighboring regions in the Eastern Mediterranean. This decision reflects the growing need to address the impacts of climate change and extreme weather phenomena. Cyprus will strengthen its strategic role in civil protection. The base is expected to assist in faster responses to wildfires and other natural events.

The Ministry of Education announced measures due to the general strike scheduled for September 11, 2025. Parents will need to pick up their children from schools in the morning, as there will be no return bus services. Staff at Unified All-Day Schools will resume their duties after the strike, but dining services will not be provided. Instructions for Community Kindergartens will come from their employers, as they are private schools.

The nomination process for the DISY parliamentary elections remains open, with internal party elections scheduled for Nicosia and Limassol. In Nicosia, there are 21 interested candidates for 20 available spots, which could lead to one candidate being excluded. Limassol also sees an increase in candidates, with 14 contenders for 12 positions. In Larnaca, interest is limited to three candidates for six available positions. DISY leadership is focusing on seeking honorary candidates.

The family of a 63-year-old woman who died from pancreatic cancer is taking legal action against a well-known radiology center and the doctor. They claim that a previous MRI three years ago revealed findings indicating cancer, but the doctor overlooked them. The woman had previously been diagnosed with early-stage endometrial cancer. After complications, a subsequent examination revealed pancreatic cancer. The family seeks accountability for the diagnostic negligence.

Borrowers are not expected to see reductions in their loan interest rates, according to economists' forecasts for the ECB. After multiple cuts, the deposit rate will remain stable at 2%. While existing loan payments will not decrease further, banks are offering lower rates on new loans. This will positively impact banks' profits, as they will not be affected by changes. The enhancement of dividend strategies is part of banks' plans for the coming years.

The discussion in Parliament about staffing schools focused on the needs highlighted by the Ministry of Education. Educational organizations are protesting about shortages mainly due to the reassignment of teachers. Permanent appointments began with the announcement of positions on July 8, 2025, and many offers have already been made. The application process for 2025-2026 saw more candidates participating than last year. The total number of educators serving has significantly increased this year.

The Ministry of Education has reduced the accommodations for teachers with serious chronic illnesses, citing an increase in applications. Teachers, who previously received more hours of support, are now seeing their provisions significantly limited. This approach is viewed as unjust, as it fails to take serious cases into account. Teachers argue that this blanket treatment undermines the human-centered approach in education. They demand individualized support that aligns with their needs.

The visit of Foreign Minister Konstantinos Kombos to Tirana marks a new phase in Cyprus-Albania relations, as it is the first visit by a Cypriot Foreign Minister to Albania in 13 years. During the meeting, topics of cooperation were discussed, including Cyprus's support for Albania's EU membership and strengthening bilateral relations. Kombos noted that these relations have great potential for growth and increased economic collaboration. The discussions also mentioned possible visits by political leaders from both countries. The visit highlights the pressing need to strengthen ties between neighboring countries for security and stability in the region.

The tripartite meeting regarding the Cyprus issue is scheduled for September 27, following the United Nations General Assembly. UN Secretary-General's personal envoy, Maria Angela Olguin, will meet with leaders Christodoulides and Tatar. Her visit aims to prepare for the meeting and assess the progress on previously agreed issues. However, the upcoming elections in the occupied territories weaken the hope for significant developments before the meeting. Tatar appears to be leveraging the Cyprus situation for political gains in the upcoming elections.

The proposal 'ATA for all' from the Minister of Labor surprised both trade unions and employer organizations. Despite this surprise, a general strike is planned where workers seek greater participation. Employers oppose the proposal, claiming it threatens labor relations. Unions believe this situation should concern the government. Everyone hopes for a social dialogue that will maintain balance.

The Cyprus National Guard will have a new commander, Major General Emmanouil Theodorou, who was proposed by Greece. Defense Minister Vasilis Palma is expected to seek formal approval today from the Cabinet. Theodorou is familiar in Cyprus, having served as commander of the Hellenic Force in Cyprus in 2014. The term of the outgoing chief, Georgios Tsitsikostas, has been extended for one month. The new commander will play an important role during Cyprus's EU presidency in the first half of 2026.