Nicosia mayors withdraw from Cyprus Forum amid political controversy

Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and Turkish Cypriot counterpart Mehmet Harmancı have withdrawn from the upcoming Cyprus Forum. The dispute began after the far-right ELAM party publicly criticized the invitation of Harmancı, prompting organizers to adjust his official title on the event's draft agenda from 'mayor' to 'leader of the Turkish Cypriot community of Nicosia'.

Following this change, Harmancı announced his withdrawal from the conference, where he was scheduled to present peace and democracy awards. In a gesture of solidarity, Prountzos subsequently stepped down as well. Organizers issued a public apology for the disruption, noting that while they attempted to revise terminology to satisfy Greek Cypriot sensitivities, the result negatively impacted their mission of fostering bicommunal dialogue. The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to keeping communication channels open between the two communities despite the current fallout and the pressure exerted by political factions.

Historically, the Cyprus Forum has promoted cross-community cooperation, with both mayors participating in previous years to discuss sensitive public policy issues. The organizers stated they will continue to encourage all parties to engage in dialogue, though the current situation has led to further withdrawals by other potential attendees.