Minibus services have been meticulously organized by the Human Rights Platform to facilitate Turkish Cypriots from across the north in casting their votes in Sunday’s European parliament elections. The initiative features three distinct routes, each serviced by two minibuses, with departures scheduled at 9am and 2pm.
Routes and Stops
The first route will embark from Trikomo, making stops in Sygkrasi, Lapathos, Arnadi, Spathariko, and Ayios Sergios before crossing into the Republic. The second route will start from Kyrenia and head towards Ayios Dhometios in Nicosia, with a stop in Bogazi. The third route will depart from Lapithos, traveling towards Astromeritis and stopping in Morphou along the way.
To secure a seat on these minibuses, individuals must register by Thursday. Registration can be completed by contacting (+90) 0542 862 00 60 and providing one’s identity card number along with the preferred bus service. All minibuses will return to their original departure points following the voting process.
Voter Participation
A notable 103,269 Turkish Cypriots residing in the north have registered to vote in the upcoming European parliament elections. Additionally, 834 Turkish Cypriots living in the Republic have also registered. To accommodate these voters, a total of 32 polling stations will be operational, distributed across the Nicosia, Larnaca, and Famagusta districts.
Turkish Cypriot Candidates
This election sees three Turkish Cypriots standing as candidates: incumbent MEP Niyazi Kizilyurek of Akel, Oz Karahan of the Green Party, and Hulusi Kilim of Volt. Their participation underscores the diverse political representation within the Turkish Cypriot community.
The organized minibus services are a testament to the efforts made to ensure that every registered voter has the opportunity to participate in this significant democratic process. As Sunday approaches, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a pivotal moment for Turkish Cypriot representation in the European parliament.
