Turkish Cypriot leader Unal Ustel denies submissive relationship with Turkey

On November 6, 2026, the leader of the National Unity Party (UBP) and 'prime minister', Unal Ustel, publicly addressed allegations that his administration maintains a submissive relationship with Turkey. During an appearance on the television channel Kibris, host Dilek Kirici questioned whether his leadership style toward Ankara is characterized by blind compliance, often described as a 'yes sir' attitude.

Ustel rejected these claims, asserting that the opposition is well aware of his assertive approach. He stated that he personally reviews and initiates corrections to infrastructure projects before signing any formal agreements with Turkey. He challenged his critics to identify a single project that has proven unsuitable for the region, maintaining that his cooperation with Turkey is based on mutual suitability rather than subservience. Ustel jokingly remarked that his wife could attest to the fact that he is not the type of person to say 'yes sir' to anyone.

In related developments, the 'Minister of Labor', Oguzhan Hasipoglu, announced a change in official scheduling, confirming that certain planned activities would take place immediately, deviating from the previously announced date of November 15.