Nicosia mayors withdraw from Cyprus Forum following political controversy over titles

Nicosia Mayor Charalambos Prountzos and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Harmanci have withdrawn from the upcoming annual Cyprus Forum, a non-profit policy conference. The controversy began when the far-right ELAM party publicly demanded the removal of Harmanci’s invitation, labeling his participation as unacceptable. Although organizers had listed Harmanci as the "mayor of the Nicosia Turkish Municipality" based on his submission, they later changed his designation to "leader of the Turkish Cypriot community of Nicosia" following pressure from ELAM.

Harmanci cited this change as a submission to political pressure and a degradation of his position, leading him to pull out of the event. Prountzos subsequently announced his own withdrawal in solidarity with his counterpart. Other organizations, including the Association for Historical Dialogue and Research and the Turkish Cypriot Youth Federation, have also withdrawn in response to the organizers' handling of the situation.

Cyprus Forum organizers issued a public apology, stating they respect the decisions of both mayors. While they maintained their commitment to fostering cross-community dialogue, they acknowledged that the initial agenda listing was not accepted by the Greek Cypriot side. The event, which has previously served as a platform for the two mayors to advocate for peace and cooperation, will proceed without their participation.