Newsroom
Turkish Cypriot educators held a protest on Friday in response to disciplinary investigations launched against dozens of teachers who took part in recent demonstrations. The action was organized by the Turkish Cypriot secondary school teachers’ union, KTOEÖS, and took place at a roundabout in the occupied area of Agios Dometios.
The controversy centers on a decision by the so-called "ministry of education" to open disciplinary proceedings against 33 teachers for their involvement in union-led mobilizations. Union leaders strongly criticized the move, accusing the authorities of attempting to silence educators rather than address deeper governance problems.
According to Turkish Cypriot media reports, the protest aimed not only to defend teachers’ labor rights but also to draw attention to broader concerns about corruption and lack of accountability. KTOEÖS president Selma Eylem argued that investigations should target government officials instead of educators, pointing to allegations of bribery and fraud. She also warned that proposed changes to education legislation threaten the secular foundations of public education and, by extension, the cultural identity of the Turkish Cypriot community.
The union’s general secretary, Tahir Gökçebel, echoed these concerns, questioning why authorities have failed to introduce asset declaration laws or stronger anti-corruption measures. He also called for greater transparency in public tenders related to school construction and infrastructure.
During the demonstration, union representatives also condemned online harassment directed at Eylem, noting that she has been subjected to sexist abuse and threats. Protesters denounced these attacks and emphasized the need to protect individuals who speak out on public issues.
