Environmental Movement of Cyprus demands accountability for Akamas forest park project

The Environmental Movement of Cyprus (PKK) has expressed strong condemnation following the Audit Office's findings regarding the implementation of the first phase of the road network in the Akamas National Forest Park. The organization highlights critical unresolved issues, including the failure to remove incompatible infrastructure, the ongoing presence of illegal structures, and incomplete restoration of protected Natura 2000 habitats.

According to the movement, 19 supplementary environmental conditions imposed to mitigate construction damages remain largely unimplemented, reflecting a fragmented approach to conservation. The PKK is calling for full transparency, demanding the publication of three administrative investigations conducted into the matter and the identification of officials responsible for approving or overseeing the reported violations. They further advocate for an independent control mechanism to monitor future actions.

The Audit Office intends to refer the case file to the Legal Service of Cyprus to evaluate potential criminal liabilities. This follows a persistent effort by the PKK, which notably submitted a formal memorandum to President Nikos Christodoulides on August 20, 2025, concerning the compliance report for the first phase of the road project. The organization stresses that a thorough investigation is essential to eliminate impunity and ensure accountability for the ecological damage caused to the protected area.