Public outcry in Cyprus forces withdrawal of decree

In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the government's move to suspend the "cost of living adjustment" paid to public employees due to economic difficulties sparked a major public backlash. Following the announcement of the decree, thousands of public employees and union members took to the streets to protest the decision. Demonstrators entered the parliament building, putting pressure on the government to backtrack.

As the protests showed no signs of stopping and strikes in the public sector paralyzed life across the country, the government promised to review the decree. With a new decision taken shortly thereafter, the decree was canceled as of April 8 and published in the Official Gazette. The government announced that the regulation in question would be reconsidered.

In the new proposal presented by Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, it was envisioned that the cost of living adjustment would be added to employees' salaries in two separate installments. Accordingly, 50 percent of the increase to be determined at the end of June would be paid immediately, while the remainder would be held until no later than January 2027. Furthermore, the proposal would only affect those with salaries above 75 thousand liras, and no employee's salary would fall below this threshold. The decree had originally envisioned postponing the cost of living payments, which are normally made in January and July, to April 2026 and January 2027.

'UNIONS' REACTION HAS NOT SUBSIDED'

Burak Maviş, President of the Cyprus Turkish Teachers' Union, stated on behalf of the unions that they categorically rejected the government's proposal, saying, "The draft presented by the Prime Minister and the government as the unions' proposals are not our unions' proposals. We will neither accept nor discuss this proposal." The unions announced that strikes and actions would continue until their demands are met.

Due to the strikes in the public sector, education in schools has come to a complete halt, and it was noted that many services, from municipalities to hospitals, are only being maintained in emergency situations. The unions are demanding that the current draft be completely withdrawn and that an early election date be set.

'STRIKES CONTINUE'

President Tufan Erhürman announced that the mediation process conducted between the parties had failed. Erhürman stated that "they had spent intense effort over the past few days to reduce tensions, prevent harm to citizens, and ensure an environment for dialogue, but that no result could be achieved other than the communication of the parties' demands." The President stated that under current conditions, there is no longer a suitable ground for the presidency to continue its mediation efforts on this issue, although they will continue to carry out their duties and responsibilities in accordance with the constitution.

Following the developments regarding the cost of living, it was noted that President Erhürman went to the Assembly of the Republic to meet with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel. No official statement was made regarding the details of the meeting.

As protests and strikes continue in the country, all eyes are on the next steps to be taken by the government and the unions.

News Source: 12punto