A tragedy occurred on the Nicosia-Limassol highway when a 70-year-old worker, Savvas Ioannou, was killed by a passing vehicle during roadworks. The victim had gone to work on an urgent basis, and the accident took place in an area lacking lighting, which may have affected visibility. The vehicle's driver was slightly injured and underwent tests, which showed negative results for drugs and alcohol. Authorities are investigating all circumstances surrounding the accident, including the area's traffic signaling. Investigations by the Labor Inspection Department are also underway.
A traffic collision occurred on the Nicosia-Limassol highway, resulting in both lanes being closed. Drivers heading towards Limassol are advised to take the exit at Agios Georgios Alamanou. The police urge drivers to be cautious and follow safety rules. Speeds should be kept low, and safe distances from vehicles ahead must be maintained. Caution is necessary due to the situation.
During the discussion of the AHK budget for 2026, lawmakers exchanged strong opinions regarding the issues in Cyprus's energy infrastructure. Stefanos Stefanu from AKEL warned that Cyprus is facing serious electricity shortages, with the future looking grim unless urgent decisions are made. He also noted that growing needs cannot be met without operating conventional power plants. The Minister of Energy warned that delays in the Vasilikos project would lead to cost overruns. Finally, the discussion highlighted the 'big interests' affecting the development of renewable energy sources.
The Supreme Court rejected a prisoner's request for protection of his physical integrity in prison. The prisoner, serving a life sentence, complained about poor living conditions, including health issues and lack of medical care. His application also mentioned instances of assaults he suffered. The judge noted that his requests were vague and did not clearly specify the actions he was seeking. The court's decision highlights the need for specific requests in such cases.
MP Irini Charalambidou is no longer a member of the AKEL Parliamentary Group. The President of the Parliament informed the plenary about this decision. AKEL will not request any changes to Charalambidou's participation in the Parliamentary Committees. George Koukoumas was appointed as the Chair of the Human Rights Committee. Stability and the time left before the dissolution of the Parliament influenced this decision.
Transport Minister Alexis Vaheapidis briefed the Transport Committee on the progress of major road projects in Lakadamia. In particular, urban plans were presented for an eight-lane road and the various phases of the Nicosia ring road. The underground lanes are expected to improve traffic flow, but they have raised concerns among the local residents. The Committee Chairman called for a reassessment of the plans. Vaheapidis acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the need for further discussions.
Donald Trump spoke at the Peace Council in Washington, announcing an additional $5 billion for the reconstruction of Gaza. He mentioned ongoing significant talks with Iran, stating that an agreement should be reached within 10 days. He emphasized that the U.S. position is that Iran cannot acquire a nuclear weapon. Additionally, 9 countries have committed to contribute $7 billion in aid for Gaza. Despite these commitments, some countries have not yet confirmed their participation in the Council.
In Strovolos, during sewerage works, medieval grain storage silos were destroyed. These silos, located beneath the road, cannot be showcased due to the ongoing construction. If the road excavation had been done on the side, they could have been preserved. The Mayor noted that the project is progressing smoothly, aside from the delay caused by the discovery of the silos. The project is funded by the EU and is expected to be completed in 18 months.
The Political Council of Volt announced the 56 proposed candidates for the May 2026 parliamentary elections. The candidates come from various fields such as science and entrepreneurship, aiming to strengthen democracy and transparency. Notably, 41.1% of the candidates are women, highlighting the representation of women in politics. The proposed list will be voted on by party members online on February 26, 2026. Volt emphasizes the importance of serious political presence and responsible voting.
The situation between the United States and Iran is reaching a critical point, with an increasing likelihood of military conflict. The U.S. is bolstering its military presence in the Middle East by deploying aerial and naval forces. Despite diplomatic talks, no agreements have been reached, with the Iranian side remaining uncompromising on key issues. Concerns also rise over Iran's nuclear activity, as facilities are being strengthened. Internal pressures on the Iranian government may affect its strategy.
Journalist Makarios Drousiotis will run as a candidate for the Volt party in Nicosia. The agreement was confirmed today, and the candidate list will be announced next week. Alongside him, other candidates will also participate in the districts of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The party is preparing for the parliamentary elections in May and will have offices in Nicosia. The processes for approving the candidate list will be completed soon.
The Anti-Narcotics Unit (YKAN) conducted a significant operation in a warehouse in the Nicosia area. It is estimated that the amounts of cocaine and cannabis exceed 100 kilograms. Cash and explosive materials were also found in the warehouse. The operation had been ongoing for several days prior to the arrests already made. The situation continues to develop as authorities investigate further information.
Starting March 1, a new law regarding traffic camera fines will be implemented. The Transport Minister announced that fines for stopping on pedestrian crossings will be reduced to €85, down from €300. A €300 fine will still apply for other violations. The requirement to stop before the waiting line at traffic signals will continue to incur a €25 fine. The law is expected to be approved by the Cabinet.
Many Turkish companies have begun registering in the Republic of Cyprus, raising concerns about national security. There is a proposed law concerning the registration process of companies to better scrutinize applicants, especially from third countries. Lawmakers expressed worries that these companies could be used for espionage or to acquire Greek-Cypriot land. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and other officials emphasized the need for stricter controls on property transactions. This issue is serious and requires attention to protect the territorial integrity of Cyprus.
The British police visited the residence of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in eastern England. There have been allegations that Andrew may have shared confidential government documents with Jeffrey Epstein. The police presence included about eight officers in plain clothes. This investigation follows earlier statements made in February. The case raises concerns about the involvement of British royals in scandals.
Father Antonios was sentenced to 9.5 years in prison for physical abuse against former residents of the Ark of the World. His sentence was converted to a monetary penalty of 10 euros per day, requiring him to pay around 60,000 euros to remain free. Other co-defendants received sentences ranging from 20 to 55.5 months. The court ordered an investigation into four witnesses for perjury and sent the case files to the Prosecutor's Office. There are suspicions that the witnesses may have testified under pressure.
New developments arise in the criminal case regarding the death of Thanasis Nikolaou, as lawyer Savvas Matsa requests to testify as a witness and withdraws from the Prosecution. He is expected to be replaced by Christos Kliridis. The defense lawyers raise objections regarding Mr. Matsa's request, emphasizing the importance of consistency in the proceedings. They also call for a reevaluation of the charges due to the change in representation. The process continues with preliminary objections and postponements.
Lawyer Ilias Stefanou stated that the Legal Service should clarify how it handled the witnesses in the 'golden passports' case. He pointed out that some witnesses who accused others did not appear to testify, and some changed their testimonies. He calls for self-criticism regarding any possible mismanagement. Regarding the appeal, he emphasizes that it will only examine legal issues without reassessing testimonies. He urges lawyers to be cautious in their public statements.
Father Antonios and four of his associates were found guilty by the Court for physical abuse of children residing in the 'Ark of the World'. Specifically, Father Antonios was convicted on 9 out of 19 charges, including serious bodily harm to minors. His associates were also found guilty of several acts of abuse. The court will decide on the sentences at a later date. In the previous trial, Antonios had already been sentenced to 51 months in prison.
The new European regulation for the welfare of dogs and cats introduces rules such as the prohibition of incestuous breeding and restrictions on crossing with wild species. It also bans painful amputations and requires daily walks for the animals. Member countries will have the option to implement stricter regulations. The regulation aims to improve traceability and animal welfare in the EU. Cyprus is working to comply with the requirements by 2028.
The Audit Service highlighted serious issues in the operation of emergency departments in Cyprus. Patients wait up to 11 hours, and there are delays in medical reports. Some reports are issued after patients have left the hospital. There are also disagreements between clinics and departments regarding procedures. The Audit Service suggests enhancing internal control mechanisms for better compliance with procedures.
Kostas Malekkos, a former football player, announced his candidacy for the upcoming parliamentary elections with the newly formed Green Party of Cyprus. His candidacy has sparked excitement among sports fans. His slogan is "A lifetime on the fields! Let's aim for victory for a green Cyprus." His participation aims to bring a new perspective and changes to the political landscape. Malekkos is known for his sports career and his environmental advocacy.
Recently, authorities in North Dakota arrested 21-year-old Joshua Hite, accused of murdering his 25-year-old girlfriend, Isadora Wengel. After the murder, he allegedly dismembered her body and disposed of it in the trash, while sending messages to her parents to convince them that she was still alive. Investigators uncovered his online searches for waste disposal and supplies related to the crime. The police found evidence, including bloodstains and human remains, leading them to believe they might find further proof of the crime. Hite has been charged with murder, and the search for Wengel's body is ongoing.
The case of the suspended mayor of Paphos, Phaidonas Phaidonos, is currently unfolding. The Ministry of Interior is investigating the municipality's contracts for leasing Turkish Cypriot properties. Reports of irregularities have emerged as the municipality failed to fulfill its obligations. The mayor was called to testify at the Nicosia police station and faced resistance from a television crew. The Interior Minister countered the mayor's claims regarding external interventions.
Tuğfan Erhürman, the leader of the Turkish Cypriots, follows a strategy of intransigence established by his predecessor, Rauf Denktaş, blocking the Cyprus negotiation process. He asserts that negotiations cannot begin without political equality and wealth sharing. Previously, he accused President Christodoulides of playing blame games. Furthermore, he emphasized that negotiations cannot start from scratch. His stance suggests alignment with Ankara.
The latest report indicates concerningly high resistance levels in Cyprus to food-related bacteria such as Campylobacter and Salmonella. There is over 90% resistance to ciprofloxacin, a key antibiotic for treating Campylobacter jejuni infections. Notably, there has been an increasing trend of resistance from 2014 to 2024. However, it is positive that there has been a reduction in Salmonella resistance to ampicillin in Cyprus. While the situation remains worrying at the European level, some positive developments have been noted.
The AKEL party is working to mobilize inactive leftist voters and turn a new page from past issues. The secretary-general, Stefanos Stefanou, urges for increased party presence in the upcoming parliamentary elections. A recent poll showed AKEL in the lead for the first time in a while. The party leadership aims to maintain a sense of optimism, even though percentages remain uncertain. Additionally, the importance of candidates and the need for hard work leading up to the elections are emphasized.
The Horizon Towers development in Larnaca marks a new era for the coastal area. It includes the construction of six towers with a total of 530 residential units and public buildings for various uses. Special attention is given to the management of groundwater to maintain the quality of underground water. Construction work is expected to take about 18 months and will have minor impacts on the area. The aim is to transform a former industrial zone into a modern urban center.
The President of the Republic has scheduled a meeting with the trade unions SEK, PEO, and DEOK to discuss labor issues. The meeting will take place next Wednesday, February 25. Topics will include pension reform and the employment of foreign workers. The unions aim to seek answers from the President regarding the government's intentions. Additionally, they will discuss the need for a review of the minimum wage, which is currently set at 1,088 euros.
The path to the privatization of the Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE) is opening up with the expected approval of the bill by Parliament. This decision aligns with international trends, as many state stock exchanges have already transformed into private companies. The new law will prioritize qualitative criteria in the selection of strategic investors over just financial offers. Candidates will be required to submit business plans for the market's development. The process will also include eligibility criteria and the possibility of exemptions for public interest reasons.