Mass Mobilization in Northern Nicosia
In a significant display of unity, hundreds of Turkish Cypriots converged on the streets of northern Nicosia, expressing their discontent with the current state of affairs. The protest, which took place on Friday evening, saw a diverse coalition of 32 political parties, trade unions, and civil society groups orchestrating the march. The procession traversed the bustling Dereboyu avenue, weaved through the historic walled city, and culminated in front of the ‘parliament’ building.
The grievances voiced by the protestors centered around what they perceive as poor political management, corruption, and a lack of clear direction from the north’s leadership. The air was thick with chants demanding an end to poverty and accountability for the ‘thieves’ in power. Notably, as the crowd passed by Ersin Tatar’s official residence, a chorus of boos underscored the palpable frustration.
Among the protestors were notable opposition figures, including Akel MEP Niyazi Kizilyurek, Volt candidate Hulusi Kilim, Nicosia mayor Mehmet Harmanci, CTP general secretary Asim Akansoy, and TDP leader Zeki Celer. Kilim shared with the Cyprus Mail his perspective on the protest’s significance, emphasizing it as a stand against corruption and a call for political will from the Turkish Cypriot community.
Celer highlighted the economic struggles and ethical issues plaguing the community, stressing that the usual passive resistance has given way to active protest in light of overwhelming societal challenges. The demonstration also included a poignant moment of silence for victims of last year’s earthquake in Adiyaman, Turkey.
Ktoeos chairwoman Selma Eylem addressed the crowd, reiterating the central message of being ‘cut to the bone’ and condemning various illicit activities alleged to be rampant in the north. She called for accountability and transparency, vowing that the fight for self-governance and respect for democratic values would persist until a just resolution is achieved.
The protest not only served as a platform for airing grievances but also as a call to action for resuming negotiations towards a federal solution for Cyprus and full integration into international law and the European Union. As the first protestors stood before the ‘parliament’ building, their message was clear: this mobilization marks only the beginning of their determined campaign for change.
