Industrial dispute escalates at Nicosia Central Prisons

The Isotita trade union has filed formal complaints with the Ministry of Labor and the Anti-Corruption Authority regarding alleged systematic retaliation and harassment of its official, Georgios Maltezos. The union claims that prison management targeted Maltezos following his public criticisms in December 2025 concerning overcrowding, drug trafficking, and understaffing. Allegations include forced reassignment to administrative duties, restriction of trade union privileges, and disciplinary action related to May Day announcements. Conversely, government sources state that the disciplinary proceedings against Maltezos concern his unauthorized absences from work, not his union activities. Isotita has announced a 24-hour strike for April 24 to protest against the disciplinary measures and prison conditions. Minister Kostas Fytiris has signaled his refusal to meet with the union, highlighting that the government is currently hiring 90 new guards and planning a new prison facility in Mathiatis to address systemic issues. Disputes have further intensified following accusations by union members that prison official Sialis verbally insulted staff members.