Mazotos residents protest against new desalination plant

On the morning of Saturday, October 24, 2026, residents of the Mazotos community organized a protest against the government's plans to construct a desalination plant in their area. Demonstrators, coordinated by the Initiative Group for the Rescue of the Mazotos Coast, blocked the Mazotos-Kiti road for approximately 30 minutes using tractors and a semi-trailer truck. The protest saw participation from local residents, political figures, and representatives of various organizations, with the group having already collected over 500 signatures against the project.

Protesters expressed concerns regarding the environmental impact on the coastline, displaying banners with slogans such as "Save the sea of Mazotos." The Community Council issued a statement clarifying that it did not participate in the protest as it had not been informed of the event beforehand. Labriani Alexandrou, a member of the local council and the protest initiative, stated that the community rejects any attempts to provide compensation for the project’s environmental effects.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment acknowledged the residents' right to express their concerns but emphasized that the state must ensure water security. According to the Ministry, the project is essential due to prolonged drought, climate change, and the urgent need for irrigation and potable water resources. The government maintains that it has considered local feedback and is proceeding with the project in accordance with legal obligations and with respect for the region.