Hunters plan to block the Nicosia-Limassol motorway on Sunday as they escalate protests over what they describe as decades of unfair treatment regarding hunting regulations.
The blockade, scheduled for 12:00 on March 23 near Skarinou, will affect all directions of traffic on one of the island’s main transport arteries, according to a statement from Active Citizens – Movement of Cypriot United Hunters.
“We warned that we would not remain apathetic,” the group said in its announcement. “It seems that some are unable to perceive the inequalities and injustice that has grown enormously and touches all issues of flora and fauna in our country.”
The hunters claim they have received no response to their concerns from the Cyprus Hunting Federation or relevant government departments, despite holding a meeting with the Game and Fauna Service.
The statement alleges that responsibility for recent additions to restricted hunting areas lies with the leadership of the Cyprus Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Federation, citing comments made by the head of the Game and Fauna Service during a recent meeting.
Protest organisers have called on hunters, fishermen, farmers, and other organised groups to join their demonstration, with coordinated gathering points established in all districts before converging on the motorway.
“Tomorrow it will be your turn,” the statement warned, urging participation in their campaign against “all forms of injustice.”
The movement has organised meeting points in Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia and Famagusta districts, with designated coordinators managing convoys from each location to arrive at the protest site simultaneously.
What is the Active Citizens – Movement of Cypriot United Hunters party
The Active Citizens – Movement of Cypriot United Hunters is a conservative political party, in 2018. The party focuses on promoting hunting practices and environmental conservation. It also upholds what it deems traditional family values and opposes same-sex marriage. In December 2023, it merged with the ‘Awakening Movement’. This merger aimed to address political corruption.
In the 2024 European Parliament elections, the party secured 4,603 votes, accounting for 1.25% of the total, but did not win any seats.
In January 2024, members of the party protested against the government, alleging unfulfilled pre-election promises by President Christodoulides, whom they had supported.
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