Katina Baird, a 32-year-old Guyanese restaurant owner, was released from immigration detention on Friday following a public campaign and intervention by the deputy migration minister.
Baird had been held at the Menoyia detention centre for one week and faced deportation after failing to secure a residence permit for several months. Her case prompted widespread public support in Larnaca and across Cyprus.
“Humanity in Cyprus has not been lost. Katina Baird was freed today. It was a popular demand from Larnaca society and Cyprus, and it became reality,” said her lawyer Elias Christou.
The 32-year-old owner of Katina’s Tasty Food Caribbean restaurant had arrived in Cyprus legally several years ago and paid her taxes regularly. She expressed gratitude following her release.
“I want to thank all the people of Larnaca for their support and the people living in my neighbourhood in Oroklini who supported me. This is my home, these are my family,” she said.
Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides told philenews that humanitarian factors were considered in handling the case, alongside existing legislation. Legal procedures will proceed if Baird wishes to pursue lawful residence in Cyprus.
Larnaca Mayor Andreas Vyras informed the deputy minister about the case, with additional briefings provided to the Presidential Palace. Officials demonstrated appropriate sensitivity regarding the release of a woman who had demonstrably contributed to Cypriot society.
Baird supports municipal events and the Larnaca 2030 organisation, which manages the city’s European Capital of Culture candidacy. Hours before her release, the organisation posted: “We express our wholehearted support for Katina Baird who has been transferred to Menoyia detention centre. Katina is one of the co-creators of the Larnaca 2030 programme.”
Christou thanked multiple officials including the deputy minister, mayor, Parliament President Annita Demetriou, and various party leaders and MPs. He also acknowledged media coverage and public messages that mobilised public opinion.
“It was shown that in Cyprus, regarding humanity, there is no room for partisan politics and everyone deserves a big bravo,” Christou said.
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