Energy Minister George Papanasstasiou announced the next steps for the GSI project, an electrical interconnection between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. In a meeting held in Athens, participants agreed on the urgent need to address regulatory pending issues. They are planning a videoconference with the EU Energy Commissioner next week. The discussions took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere. The minister emphasized the importance of cooperation to achieve the project's objectives.
A lawyer representing a convict who reported being raped in prison is requesting the intervention of the President of the Republic to protect her client's rights. In her letter, she highlights serious shortcomings by the prison administration and the police that violate her client's rights. She also calls for the appointment of an independent criminal investigator and immediate administrative measures to protect witnesses. The lawyer emphasizes that continuing to detain her client exposes him to danger. The President's intervention is deemed essential to safeguard the rights of prisoners.
A heated online dispute has erupted between Andreas Chasapopoulos and two political figures, Charidimos Tsoukas and Konstantinos Christofides. Chasapopoulos accused them of political cynicism and nasty tactics. Christofides responded by demanding a public apology and warned of legal action if his statements are not retracted. Tsoukas stated he would not engage with the 'populists' who are barking. This situation reflects the challenges of political communication in the social media era.
The storm 'Barbara' caused heavy rainfall in Cyprus, with Paphos Airport recording the highest precipitation levels. Despite the local intensity of the rains, the overall contribution to water reserves remains limited. Nonetheless, the rain is considered beneficial for agriculture and crops. The total capacity of dams is currently at 11.9%, lower than last year. No further storms are expected until October 17th.
The Israeli government spokesperson announced that the ceasefire in Gaza will begin 24 hours after the Israeli cabinet meeting, if the terms are approved. The ceasefire was initially intended to go into effect immediately. The Israeli Defense Forces will reposition themselves to control 53% of the Gaza Strip. Hamas has reported difficulties in delivering some of the deceased hostages. The living hostages are expected to be handed over to the Red Cross and then to Israeli troops for examination.
The EU has approved a new regulation for the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, which will be implemented in member states. The rules include strict requirements for animal care and mandatory microchipping. In Cyprus, regulations will be needed to establish a national registry and the Veterinary Services will be responsible for inspections. Despite the challenges, the government and stakeholders must prepare for these changes. The rules aim to combat illegal trade and protect animals.
By summer 2026, EU citizens must replace old identity cards with new European standard ones. Old identity cards will not allow travel within the EU, although using a passport will still be possible. This change also applies to Cyprus under European directives. Citizens of the Hellenic Republic must update their documents to ensure they meet higher security and recognition standards. Additionally, the Personal Number will be adopted as the main identification tool for public transactions.
In Limassol, a foreigner is accused of administering cocaine to a woman in a nightclub. Following the incident, the woman reported the case to the police. He requested the cancellation of a search warrant for his home and car, but the Supreme Court indicates that there are reasonable suspicions against him. The investigation confirms the existence of testimony linking the accused to the act. His clothing and mobile phone are deemed important for the development of the case.
A case of usury and extortion is linked to two criminal acts at a contractor's offices. A businessman reported a 43-year-old as a suspect for threats and an assault due to financial disputes. The suspect denies the charges, with his lawyers citing a lack of evidence. The businessman borrowed €400,000, but the interest escalated, leading to tensions between them. The cases are expected to be examined further in court.
The European Court of Human Rights condemned Cyprus for violating the right to free elections in the case of former MP Georgios Papadopoulos. There was a legislative gap regarding procedures for filling vacant parliamentary seats, leading to the annulment of his election. Although amendments were made to the electoral law, these changes were deemed unconstitutional. In its final decision, the ECHR ruled that Cyprus must pay 8,000 euros in compensation to Papadopoulos. The case highlights the need for a reassessment of electoral legislation in Cyprus.
The Independent Authority Against Corruption released a report regarding allegations against the former director of the Nicosia Water Board. Investigations were conducted into claims of sexual harassment by four employees. Out of approximately 70 reports, only four were identified with issues needing further assessment. The complaints involved limited actions related to the decisions of the Board of Directors. The organization respects the Authority's findings and approaches the matter with cooperation.
Cypriot universities are recognized in international rankings. The University of Cyprus is placed among the top 401-500 universities in the world. Cyprus University of Technology and the University of Nicosia rank within the 501-600 category globally. The European University of Cyprus is positioned among the 801-1000 best universities. The assessment is based on five key pillars that reflect the quality of education and research.
The Independent Anti-Corruption Authority announced the completion of its investigation into Mr. Konstantinos Parmaklis, former director of the Nicosia Water Supply Council. The investigation was initiated based on a complaint filed by the Head of Financial Services and included 70 allegations. The allegations relate to potential abuse of power and other questionable actions. The Commissioner of Transparency approved the release of the report for transparency reasons. This publication is deemed important for informing the public about corruption issues.
32-year-old Rebecca Campbell was found stabbed outside her home near Liverpool. Her partner, Michael Ormandy, is accused of stabbing her 18 times just hours after a night with another woman. In court, Ormandy claimed that Campbell attacked him first and that he acted in self-defense. Their relationship was marked by previous tensions, including an altercation days before the incident. The case has shocked the public due to the brutality of the crime.
Turkey is trying to establish its influence in the Balkans by sending drone strikes to Kosovo, provoking reactions from Serbia. The Prime Minister of Kosovo announced the arrival of the drones, which are equipped with explosive mechanisms. Serbia reacted strongly, with its president accusing Turkey of violating international regulations. Tensions between the two countries are rising, as Turkey continues to invest in Kosovo's military. This raises concerns about stability in the region.
A low-pressure area is affecting the region of the Black Sea, bringing partly cloudy weather with local rains and thunderstorms. Weather conditions are expected to gradually improve, leading to primarily clear weather over the weekend with a slight increase in temperature. Winds will mainly be southwesterly and are expected to weaken. The temperature is forecasted to reach around 24 degrees inland and up to 27 degrees along the coasts. Tonight, the weather will be relatively calm with limited cloud cover.
Today, a report regarding a government official associated with a complaint of corruption and abuse of power is being delivered. The case has been kept away from the public eye for confidentiality reasons. The Commissioner for Transparency announced that the report will be handed to the Attorney General, and a related announcement will be made. There are also ongoing investigations into other complaints involving political parties. The aim is to ensure transparency and combat corruption.
Road works in Nicosia are causing traffic disruptions, as when a roadway is closed, the traffic is redirected to other streets. Deputy Mayor Chrysanthos Fakas points out that even after the projects are completed, the traffic issues will not be resolved. He urges the responsible authorities to find solutions for the current situation. Business owners in the area report serious consequences from the ongoing works. The proposals made by the municipal council to alleviate traffic have not been accepted.
Andreas Chasapopoulos has shifted his stance towards Odysseas Michailidis following the announcement of the new movement 'Alma'. Though he was once a strong supporter, he is now critical and questions Michailidis's intentions. Additionally, other supporters of Michailidis have begun to express their dissatisfaction with his choices. Posts on social media indicate that former supporters feel disappointment and betrayal. Overall, the political atmosphere seems to be tense.
The Supreme Constitutional Court dismissed a request to assess the constitutionality of a provision related to widow pensions for public employees. The case involved a woman who was denied a pension because her marriage occurred after her husband's retirement. The Court's decision invokes the principle of equality and indicates that judges cannot legislate. The case also examined a previous decision concerning the legality of the Lottery Law. Ultimately, the Court's ruling highlights the limits of judicial intervention in legislation.
The legislation for the protection of patients' rights introduces a new mechanism that requires healthcare facilities to appoint patient rights officers. These officers will support citizens in cases of issues or complaints regarding health services. Marios Charalampidis has been appointed as the first Patient Advocate, initiating the implementation of the law. Concurrently, regional committees will be established to address grievances and monitor compliance by healthcare providers. This mechanism aims to enhance transparency and the protection of patients.
The government has established a private company with the sole shareholder being the Council for the Trade of Cypriot Potatoes (CTCP) to reduce operational costs. The new bill is expected to change the structure and operation of the CTCP, which has supported potato farming in Cyprus for decades. There are currently 1,300 potato farmers in Cyprus, with 50% utilizing the CTCP for managing their products. Potatoes are the leading agricultural product in the country, with significant exports mainly to Greece and the United Kingdom. The CTCP is being modernized and continues its operations without burdening the state budget.
Declining birth rates negatively impact businesses by reducing customer numbers and sales. Companies like Jumbo face challenges due to the ongoing decrease in births, affecting their revenues. Despite a 4% increase in sales in September 2025, businesses must adapt their strategies. Some companies are diversifying their product lines or strengthening other categories to compensate for losses. The issue of declining birth rates may have long-term effects on the market, necessitating adjustment strategies.
An elderly patient was left in the emergency department of a private hospital for 14 hours without food and water. The complaint was made by his son, who reported the complete neglect of his father during his stay. The patient repeatedly requested assistance, but no necessary services were provided. Despite the son's efforts to communicate with doctors and hospital administration, there was no improvement in his father's condition. This complaint has now been sent to relevant authorities for investigation.
The ineffectiveness of the justice system in sports was highlighted in a meeting of the parliamentary committee on Institutions. Out of 20 investigations by the Ethics and Sports Protection Committee since 2021, there have been no convictions for serious offenses. The penalties imposed are related only to misdemeanors and fines. Although the law concerning sports event manipulation allows for prison sentences, it seems not to have been implemented. Most of the investigated cases have either been archived or are at an early investigation stage and do not involve serious violations.