citizens

The asset declaration, the prosecutors’ exemption and the provocative 6-4 in the Institutions Committee

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The asset declaration, the prosecutors’ exemption and the provocative 6-4 in the Institutions Committee

The Attorney General and Deputy Attorney General requested to be exempt from a new law requiring asset declarations to be made public. Despite concerns about corruption and the importance of transparency, the proposal barely passed in the Institutions Committee by a vote of 6-4. One MP showed courage by diverging from the party line, preventing a tie in the vote. The demand for exemption was made based on the argument that they are not politically exposed persons and should not be subject to public scrutiny. However, the column questions this reasoning, citing past corruption cases involving high-ranking officials. Members of the Institutions Committee voted in favor of including prosecutors in the list of officials required to submit asset declarations, with some MPs going against their party line. There is a risk that the position may change in the plenary, depending on how certain MPs vote.

Hellenic Bank champions green transition at Nicosia summit

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Hellenic Bank champions green transition at Nicosia summit

The Green Agenda Cyprus Summit highlighted the vision and actions necessary for the green transition of the Cypriot economy. Hellenic Bank is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and has set clear goals and indicators to reduce its environmental footprint. The bank offers specialized green products to combat climate change and improve energy efficiency. Cyprus Agriculture Minister introduced a pilot program for green roofs, and the Energy Minister expressed caution regarding hydrogen usage. European Commissioner for Climate Action emphasized Cyprus’ potential in renewable energy and the importance of investments in sustainable transport. European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety highlighted the health impacts of the climate crisis, including heatwaves and air pollution.

A Global Tax on Billionaires? Janet Yellen Says ‘No’

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A Global Tax on Billionaires? Janet Yellen Says ‘No’

The U.S. opposes a proposed global wealth tax on billionaires, as Treasury secretary Janet Yellen stated that the country does not support the idea of a common global arrangement for taxing billionaires and redistributing the proceeds.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange allowed to appeal extradition from Britain to US

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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange allowed to appeal extradition from Britain to US

Julian Assange has been granted permission to appeal against extradition to the U.S. by arguing that he might not have free speech rights in a U.S. court. The appeal is based on concerns that he could be discriminated against as a foreign national. Assange is wanted in the U.S. on 18 charges related to WikiLeaks’ release of secret U.S. documents. The appeal was welcomed by his supporters, who gathered outside the court. If the ruling had gone against him, Assange could have been extradited to the U.S. within 24 hours. U.S. assurances that Assange could rely on First Amendment protections were deemed inadequate by his legal team. The appeal will now cover all 18 charges against him.

Switching people on to green power in Europe

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Switching people on to green power in Europe

Researchers in Europe are working to inform residents about clean energy options.

Establishing fate of missing , ‘top priority’ for govt

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Establishing fate of missing , ‘top priority’ for govt

Fact: There are still 758 Greek Cypriots missing out of 1,510, according to government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis.

Clampdown on foreign property buyers in the north

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Clampdown on foreign property buyers in the north

Fact: The Turkish Cypriot administration is working on legal amendments to limit the number of properties that foreigners can purchase in the northern part of Cyprus.

As wealth inequality rises in Cyprus both people and democracy suffer

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As wealth inequality rises in Cyprus both people and democracy suffer

Cyprus households have a median net wealth of €200,400 in 2021, with the top 10% holding 46.1% of the net wealth. Wealth inequality is increasing, with the Gini coefficient for wealth distribution rising. Inheritance and bequests are a major factor in explaining wealth inequality. Returns to capital have grown faster than returns to labor, leading to greater wealth accumulation by households owning capital. High wealth inequality has profound socioeconomic effects and political consequences in shaping election outcomes and policies.

Race against time for the 9 June elections

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Race against time for the 9 June elections

The Election Service and political parties are working to prepare for the upcoming elections on June 9. The Election Service has launched the “Where I Vote” platform to help voters find their polling station and ballot papers. Parties are concerned about voter turnout and are addressing people’s questions. Voters will receive up to six different colored ballots for various positions, and must present proper identification to vote. Voters must not mix candidates from different combinations on the ballot.

Election debates fail to spark interest

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Election debates fail to spark interest

– Cyprus voters will be handed six ballot papers to choose mayors, deputy mayors, municipal councillors, village leaders, council members, district council presidents, and members of the European Parliament.
– The number of mayors has been reduced and the number of deputy mayors has been tripled due to a municipal reform.
– Some new municipalities will have a greater population, while others will be the biggest in area.
– Some municipalities and village councils refused to merge due to personal egos.
– There is frustration among voters about the new roles created and candidates not knowing their duties.
– Local issues are not being discussed, and there is a lack of female participation in MEP and mayoral candidates.
– The turnout on election day could be smaller than ever due to growing apathy.