The opposition AKEL party has strongly criticised the Christodoulides government’s response to what it calls a “fascist attack” on leftist association house in Lakatamia, accusing authorities of “dangerous silence” and inadequate action.
AKEL MP Aristos Damianou condemned President Christodoulides for “carefully avoiding personal condemnation of this serious attack” against AKEL and the Left by organised far-right fascist elements.
Damianou also criticised Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis for “insisting without evidence on referring to ‘hooligan violence,'” allegedly overlooking the political nature and murderous motives of the perpetrators. “In this way, the fascist hooded attackers are being whitewashed, intentionally or not,” he added.
The AKEL MP expressed serious concern about the police investigation’s progress, describing results as “meagre” and claiming legal and technological capabilities were not utilised. He specifically noted the absence of serious charges such as attempted murder or manslaughter, which would have allowed access to telecommunications data.
“What else is it but attempted murder when you repeatedly strike people on the head with clubs?” Damianou asked.
He stressed that AKEL’s history is full of similar attacks dating back to EOKA B and Grivas, stating: “We will not accept cover-ups and concealment from institutions that are obligated to protect citizens and respect their constitutional rights.”
Damianou reiterated demands for full investigation, criminal prosecution and exemplary conviction of all those involved in the attack.
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