Limassol Municipal Council votes to keep the city zoo open

On Friday, June 19, the Limassol Municipal Council held a pivotal session to decide the future of the city zoo. A proposal to relocate the animals and transform the site into an ecological and educational park was rejected by 14 votes to 10. The Animal Party of Cyprus had actively campaigned against keeping animals in captivity, arguing that traditional zoos are outdated and inhumane. Conversely, some residents advocated for the zoo's preservation, citing its historical and cultural significance to the city. Mayor Yiannis Armeftis confirmed the result but noted that he personally believes animals should not be kept in captivity. Although the zoo will continue operating normally for now, the mayor stated the matter is not definitively closed. The municipal authorities may revisit the potential reorganization of the facility once a new proposal is developed. The debate continues to highlight the tension between local historical nostalgia and modern animal welfare standards.