Cypriot pensioners stage protest at regional congress in Kiti

On Thursday, October 9, 2026, members of the Union of Cypriot Pensioners (EKYSY) held a symbolic protest during their regional congress in Kiti, Larnaca. The participants demanded comprehensive pension reforms, specifically calling for the abolition of the 12% actuarial penalty on early pensions, measures to combat rising costs of living, and a reduction in prescription drug prices.

During the congress, organized at the People's Organizations building in Kiti, officials including EKYSY General Secretary Eutychios Papamichael and PEO Deputy General Secretary Christos Tombazos addressed the attendees. Key demands discussed included granting survivor pensions to all widowers and revising the national poverty threshold to reflect current economic realities. Christos Tombazos briefed the members on ongoing government proposals, contrasting them with the union's counter-proposals.

The event featured speeches by Giorgos Sotiriou, AKEL Central Committee member Michalis Michael, and PEO Larnaca District Secretary Antonis Siathas. The congress served as a platform for EKYSY to reiterate its stance against government-proposed reforms that differ from the union's policy objectives. The organization continues to press for these changes as part of its broader advocacy for pensioners' rights in Cyprus.