Protests at Parliament in Nicosia escalate into clashes with police

In Nicosia, clashes occurred between protesters and police during a demonstration against the bill on cost-of-living compensation.

Trade unions, having declared a general strike, gathered in various parts of the city in the morning and then headed to the Parliament building. After a brief period of tension with the police, protesters breached the barricades and entered the Parliament grounds.

Later, police began dispersing the protest. According to local media, security forces used pepper spray and water cannons, as well as shields and batons.

It is reported that journalists and several protesters were injured during the clashes. Additionally, MPs from the opposition CTP party, including Ongun Talat, were affected by pepper spray, while MP Devrim Barçın was hit by water cannon jets.

During the unrest, protesters threw stones at a fire engine and smashed its windows.

The unions took to the streets after the government submitted the bill on cost-of-living compensation payments to Parliament for consideration. They believe the proposed measures will erode workers' purchasing power.