The cutting of the New Year’s cake at the Dias Group sparked a discussion on the Cyprus Issue and the need for citizens to be informed by the House of Representatives.
In her opening remarks, the President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou, stated, “On behalf of all colleagues and Ministers, I wish everyone a happy New Year, and the very best for 2025. Continue your work, which strengthens ours. We rely on accurate journalism, and that is what we need.”
She added that citizens need to know exactly what we are dealing with daily, what needs to be done for their benefit, and above all, for our country.
She emphasised, “May 2025 be the year our country is liberated and finds redemption after half a century of suffering. Best wishes to everyone individually.”
Andreas Hadjicostis then took the floor to respond to Demetriou.
He said, “Everything you said is correct. However, what I want to say and suggest is that, as Speaker of the House and Acting President, you must ensure that the people know where we stand.”
He stressed that Cypriot Hellenism does not know where we are, where we are heading, how we are progressing, or how we can reach the end goal, or even what that goal is. “The Parliament refuses to discuss this issue. The people’s representatives refuse to discuss and explain to the public where our story stands,” he said.
Addressing Demetriou, Hadjicostis stated, “Madam Speaker, it is your responsibility to ensure that the Parliament discusses the Cyprus Issue in depth so that the public understands what is happening. You, like all Cyprus leaders, have the best intentions. The eight Presidents of Cyprus wanted to contribute to this nation and liberate the country. None sought to harm it, yet all reached a point of offering an apology for failure.”
He highlighted, “The people don’t know what’s happening. Parliament is obliged to explain where things stand. The public often feels like they’re being misled. As Speaker of the House, you must inform the public about the current state of affairs. Only then will even the Archbishop feel more at ease, as he too doesn’t know where things stand.”
Demetriou responded, saying, “I cannot leave this unanswered. I want to thank him because we not only respect but also listen to him. The dear Mr Hadjicostis knows that intervention in the Cyprus Issue is not within the Parliament’s mandate. However, I assure you that every day, on your panels and in other programmes, it remains our foremost concern.”
She added, “I believe we all share the same sensitivity, albeit with different political views. We understand the importance of supporting every effort to inform and involve citizens, but above all, to protect our country and use correct diplomatic moves and actions to pave the way for the liberation and reunification of our nation. We must take responsibility as political beings whose primary concern is the Cyprus Issue. We are open to advice and ready to listen, and I agree that we have a duty to inform.”
In conclusion, she stated, “This is being done within the framework of the National Council and our discussions. I can reassure everyone that the Cyprus Issue remains our top priority.”
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