AKEL on the closure of crossing points

AKEL C.C. Press Office, 28th February 2020, Nicosia

We have been informed via the media that the government has decided to close crossing points. We are of the opinion that on such a serious issue which also has political implications, the political forces should previously have been a briefed and consulted. In order to avoid any problems, there should also have been an understanding with the Turkish Cypriot side.

The government did neither. And even though government officials, such as for example the Foreign Minister or the DISY president, were saying they would not proceed to close the checkpoints, the government all of a sudden decided the closure of crossing points.

We understand that to address potential problems with the coronavirus, measures must be taken wherever necessary, the government with its erratic behaviour and the way it has acted questions are raised and we are in danger of being exposed.