Officials finalize new district maps after local government overhaul

Work is underway to complete the new district maps of Cyprus, part of a sweeping reform to the country’s local administration that took effect on July 1, 2024. The maps, which are being drawn by the Cartography Branch of the Department of Cadastral and Land Surveying, aim to define the updated administrative divisions brought about by the reform.

Director General of the Ministry of Interior, Elikkos Ilias, told CYPE that the draft maps will soon be shared with stakeholders, including the Union of Municipalities and the Union of Communities, for review and feedback. These maps are expected to provide clarity on how the island’s governance will now be structured.

Challenges in the New Map

Ilias acknowledged that the new maps highlight certain weaknesses in the reform. For instance, some municipalities have very small populations or areas, which could impact their administrative efficiency. Another complication is the division of Akamas National Park between two municipalities, a decision that has drawn attention for its potential administrative challenges.

Despite these issues, Ilias emphasized that the new structure is a work in progress and that cooperation between communities is essential to make it effective.

Naming Controversies

The process of naming new administrative clusters has proven contentious. In Nicosia, Paphos, and Larnaca, some community groups have been unable to agree on names for their clusters. Ilias said the Ministry of Interior is mediating to help them reach consensus.

A shorter name is also being considered for the cluster in Larnaca that currently includes Agia Anna, Kalo Chorio, Mosfiloti, Pyrga, and Pseuda. Similarly, the name of Polis Chrysochous is under review as part of broader efforts to make the map simpler and more practical for residents.

Next Steps and Public Awareness

Once finalized, the new district maps will be shared with the Ministry of Education to ensure they are included in the school curriculum, helping future generations understand the updated administrative framework.

The Ministry of Interior is now racing to finalize these maps and address any remaining issues, with a focus on making them as functional and citizen-friendly as possible. This marks a critical step in Cyprus’s journey to modernize its local governance system.

Source: CNA