Safety and ownership disputes surround the Othello cinema building in Nicosia

The former Othello cinema in Egkomi, Nicosia, has become the subject of an urgent parliamentary investigation due to severe concerns regarding its structural integrity and public health risks. While state authorities, including the Nicosia District Self-Government Organization (EOA), have characterized the building as dangerous following a visual inspection, the site remains operational with active ground-floor businesses and heavy pedestrian traffic.

Store owners, including Michalis, Panagiotis, and Pantelitsa Panteli, have challenged the potential demolition orders, claiming to have invested €1.2 million into the property and asserting that their specific units are safe. They submitted a detailed memorandum to the parliamentary Oversight Committee to defend their position. Conversely, the Municipality of Nicosia, represented by Mayor Charalambos Prountzos, is pursuing legal action to address ongoing public nuisance and safety violations that have persisted for two decades.

Eirini Charalambidou initially brought the matter to light, seeking accountability from local authorities. The parliamentary committee has now requested a formal structural study from the EOA to determine whether the building requires comprehensive repairs or complete demolition. The issue remains ongoing, with further legislative review planned.