Community council in Pera Oreinis collapses amid financial scandal

The community council of Pera Oreinis in the Nicosia district has collapsed following a series of mass resignations and allegations of financial misappropriation. The crisis began on July 8, 2026, with the initial resignation of council member Valentinos Christodoulou, followed by the departure of the president and seven of the eight council members by the end of the month. The community office was forced to remain closed for three weeks, causing significant disruption to public services.

Nicosia District Officer Andreas Hadjipakkos intervened on July 15, 2026, by notifying the Audit Office and the Police Chief to initiate a thorough investigation. Evidence, including meeting minutes and administrative documents, has been secured by authorities, and two council staff members have been placed on suspension pending the outcome of criminal and disciplinary proceedings.

To restore administrative functionality, the Cabinet will assign temporary oversight of Pera Oreinis to the Pano Deftera community council. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior is organizing by-elections, which are scheduled to take place on September 6, 2026.