Apostolos Kouroupakis
Finally, justice is served!
Last Wednesday, many people gathered outside Legal Services to show their support for Andriana Nikolaou in her battle for justice regarding the death of her son, Thanasis. The support for Mrs. Andriana is the least that society can offer. However, we must not overlook the responsibilities of the previous Attorneys General in this matter. Petros Clerides in 2009 and Costas Clerides in 2014 decided not to reopen the case and neglected to order a potential investigation into criminal activities. They made these decisions while reports were debunking the suicide theory. Similarly, we must not disregard the role of the former Forensic Examiner, Panicos Stavrianos, who dismissed the possibility of foul play. Isn't it time to hold all of them accountable for their failure to perform their duties and their potential involvement in a cover-up?
Comfort in Simplicity
By the way, have you heard about the plans for a marina in Famagusta? It seems that Famagusta is gradually becoming a popular tourist destination in the Eastern Mediterranean. The number of tourists is increasing, and unfortunately, many are unaware of the complex political situation, resolutions, or the rights of property owners. Nevertheless, our side finds solace in the reaffirmation of UN resolutions, and progress continues. Following the Vilnius meeting and the improved relations between Mitsotakis and Erdogan, we will also engage with Europe in September to see how things unfold. Unless Mr. Erdogan, who will likely visit the occupied areas soon, introduces unexpected changes that require us to adjust our plans... Well, we'll wait and see. It's better to take things easy, as rushing won't do any good, whether in marathons or other endeavors.
New Deputy Minister, new location...
Michalis Hatzigiannis resigned from the Ministry of Culture just when they were searching for a suitable office space. According to sources, they have found a suitable building since the Cultural Services cannot accommodate everyone. This presents an opportunity for the Ministry of Education to reclaim the building of the Center for Scientific Research and restore it as a research facility. Of course, it requires Minister Michaelidou's courage and willingness to revive the center's former glory. Fortunately, we have talented young scientists, adequate research tools, and many individuals eager to work, so taking bold steps is essential. The country also greatly benefits from such research centers. It's worth noting that the new Deputy Minister of Culture, Lina Kassianidou, has a background in this field; she previously served as the director of the Archaeological Unit, just a little further down...
Do we value our archives?
Speaking of buildings, what is happening with the relocation of the State Archives? After Emily Yioliti, we had two more Ministers of Justice... who made promises but, as it turns out, failed to take substantial action. While the State Archives made progress by moving from apartments to their current building, there is an urgent need for modern archival facilities to accommodate all the records. It's crucial for Mrs. Prokopiou to address this matter seriously. We cannot rely solely on the achievements of Ms. Yioliti, about whom we have previously discussed. Otherwise, we risk neglecting our archives by storing them in boxes or keeping them in water-damaged basements and so on... As for the Cyprus Library, it's a topic best left untouched...
Compassion is required
The Association for the Welfare of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (SEANA) is facing a significant challenge. In a recent post, SEANA's president, Stavros Stavrou, highlights the association's struggle to find a suitable house to operate on a 24-hour basis. Unfortunately, they have encountered difficulties in securing a property that meets their needs. Mr. Stavrou explains that finding a house suitable for the 24-hour program has proven highly challenging from the start. Landlords are unwilling to make necessary modifications, such as widening doors or installing ramps, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Despite numerous promises, no concrete actions have been taken. The association has been redirected from one ministry to another, leading to a frustrating deadlock. Perhaps Mrs. Evaggelou could intervene? It seems that her attention and assistance are required, as we rarely hear about progress in this matter.
[This article was translated from its Greek original]
