Newsroom
Justice and Public Order Minister Marios Hartsiotis moved to clarify remarks he made earlier this week about the deadly wildfire that swept through rural Cyprus, after his initial comments drew sharp criticism for downplaying the deaths of two residents.
The fast-moving blaze, described as unprecedented in scale and intensity, forced the evacuation of 16 villages and caused widespread destruction. During the evacuations, an elderly couple died in their vehicle, a tragedy that shocked the nation and overshadowed government statements about the operation’s successes.
In his original comments, Hartsiotis praised the evacuation effort, noting that there had been “absolutely no loss of life” in the 16 villages evacuated. “That is why I publicly express my thanks, first of all, despite the unfortunate incident involving two of our fellow citizens, while 16 entire villages were evacuated, we had absolutely no loss of life,” he said.
The remark was widely perceived as minimizing the deaths, prompting public backlash.
Hartsiotis issued a written statement seeking to address the criticism and express condolences. “The loss of two of our fellow citizens is undoubtedly a tragic event,” he said. “Both the deaths of our fellow citizens and the destruction left behind by this unprecedented wildfire have shaken us all, and no words or expressions can convey the depth of our grief.”
He added that his earlier comments were not meant to undervalue human life. “My reference was never intended to diminish the value of human life, the safeguarding of which — as I have repeatedly stated from the very beginning of the wildfire — was the Government’s priority,” he said. “My statement understandably caused negative associations and subsequent criticism.”
Hartsiotis again thanked firefighters, police, civil defense officials, local authorities, volunteers and residents who worked to contain the fire and assist with evacuations. “Everyone’s contribution prevented further loss of human life in the evacuated communities,” he said.
The wildfire has left a trail of destruction and mounting questions about the government’s response, with criticism focusing both on emergency preparedness and the minister’s handling of public communication during the crisis.
