Demonstrators donned wigs and masks outside the House of Representatives in Nicosia on Wednesday as lawmakers prepared to review amendments to legislation governing public gatherings and demonstrations.
The protesters displayed banners proclaiming “The right to protest is inalienable, you clowns!” while some participants wore disguises, including one demonstrator who held a photograph of House Speaker Annita Demetriou in front of their face.
A second banner at the demonstration stated “No to the bill on demonstrations,” while placards also displayed messages directed at the police.
Protesters’ statement
In a statement, the afoa movement explained the motivation behind their participation carnival-themed demonstration:
“Today, February 26, during the first day of discussion on the controversial proposals to restrict the right to protest in the House Legal Committee, members of our community and other solidarity individuals are holding a symbolic protest outside the parliament building.”
“The right to protest cannot be diminished. Social and class struggles and their expression on the streets are neither legal nor illegal – they are just,” the statement continued.
The protesters said they wore masks to “characterise as a carnival the discussion around the government bill” and the proposal by the Democratic Rally (DISY) party criminalising wearing masks and hoods during protests. They called on parliament to reject both legislative measures.
“We will not remain inactive against the efforts of the Christodoulides government and the Democratic Rally to restrict the right to protest,” the statement concluded, with protesters indicating their readiness to “intervene more forcefully” if necessary.
Ongoing debates on protest rights
The demonstration coincides with parliamentary discussions about citizens’ right to peaceful protest, which was also examined recently by the Human Rights Committee. During those discussions, it was noted that citizens have been arrested even for displaying banners.
The committee was also informed that two criminal and three disciplinary investigations are currently underway against police officers regarding their handling of protesters during a demonstration by the “Os Dame” movement. Additional complaints of police violence have also been reported.
The proposed amendments have sparked debate among civil liberties advocates, legal experts, and law enforcement officials. Supporters argue the changes are necessary for public safety and order, while critics say they represent a crackdown on fundamental democratic rights.
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