MEP Fidias defends actions in video after memorial event dispute

Cypriot MEP Fidias Panayiotou released a three-minute video responding to accusations made by the "Association of Spouses and Children of the Missing 1619" regarding an incident at the Presidential Palace during a memorial event marking 50 years since the Turkish invasion.

In the video, Panayiotou acknowledged the tension during the event and admitted to making some inappropriate remarks. However, he emphasized that he apologized immediately. Panayiotou also stated that an outsider observing the exchange would not have found the conversation unusual. Additionally, he invited those involved to participate in a podcast to discuss their positions and issues.

Πολλοί αναγκάζουν με να απολογηθώ pic.twitter.com/IfR7yFYkEQ

— Fidias Cyprus (@FidiasCyprus) July 23, 2024

The association's statement mentioned that they had asked Panayiotou to organize an event at the European Parliament to address the issue of the missing persons. They reported that Panayiotou not only refused but also responded with sarcasm. The association expressed deep disappointment over the incident on July 20, during the memorial for the Cyprus tragedy's 50th anniversary.

According to the association, after the event, ten members approached Panayiotou for his support on the matter of the missing persons. They requested that he organize an event at the European Parliament and take a photograph with them while writing a comment supporting their cause. Instead of support, they said they received mockery and dismissive comments such as, "Who do you think you are?" and "The European Parliament doesn't work like that."

The association highlighted the sacrifice made by those who gave their lives 50 years ago, allowing current freedoms and privileges, and urged Panayiotou to apologize to every mother, spouse, sibling, and child of the missing persons.