Palaichori-Oreinis community council alleges misconduct by Interior Ministry officials

On October 28, 2026, the Community Council of Palaichori-Oreinis sent a formal letter to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, alleging systematic interference by officials from the Ministry of Interior in local governance and electoral processes. The council asserts that ministry personnel are actively recruiting and encouraging residents to run in upcoming by-elections, effectively attempting to manufacture preferred outcomes.

Beyond electoral interference, the council highlights a conflict regarding the administrative merger of Palaichori-Oreinis with Palaichori-Morphou. The community leaders argue that this consolidation is being forced against the explicit will of the residents, as expressed in a previous referendum, and contrary to a formal opinion issued by the Attorney General. They claim the process is driven by officials who have disregarded legal guidance and are now resorting to threats and blackmail to force the community to merge with a bankrupt entity.

The letter further questions whether these actions occur with the knowledge or tacit approval of the Minister of Interior. The council has explicitly accused the Director General of the Ministry of Interior of slandering elected local representatives. The community is now seeking direct intervention from the President to investigate these practices and address the alleged abuse of authority within the ministry, though no formal response or upcoming court date has been mentioned yet.