Cyprus livestock farmers staged a dramatic protest today, marching with a coffin to the Presidential Palace in opposition to foot-and-mouth disease control measures.
The march began at 10:00 AM from the GSP Stadium in Nicosia, with dozens of farmers from across Cyprus walking toward the Presidential residence.
A farmer from the Geri area alleged that “the Agriculture Minister ordered them to break down the gate and enter the pen,” calling the state’s actions “a betrayal” of the livestock sector.
Protesters are primarily opposed to the culling of healthy and asymptomatic animals, which they consider a disproportionate measure. They also strongly object to sampling of vaccinated animals, which they describe as illegal.
Key demands include an immediate halt to culling, cessation of sampling, and clear answers regarding compensation. Cyprus Police are monitoring the mobilization, with traffic management measures in place across the wider area.
