Mass protests and strike in Nicosia: EL-SEN head arrested, tear gas used

On April 7, 2026, trade unions and protesters held a large-scale demonstration and general strike in Nicosia near the parliament building against measures to combat the rising cost of living; participants included Türk-Sen, EL-SEN, KTAMS, and other organizations. During the events, EL-SEN leader Ahmet Tugcu was detained, police used tear gas and blocked the entrances to the parliament with fire trucks.

The protests were accompanied by clashes at the entrance to the parliament, police officers used gas, arrests were recorded, and some deputies walked out of the hall; the plenary session was suspended. President Tufan Erhürman held talks with union representatives, met with Prime Minister Ünal Üstel at 17:20, and then with a union delegation (meeting started around 18:10). Türk-Sen leader Arslan Bıçaklı stated that the actions would continue until the controversial decree and bill are withdrawn.

The Minister of Health postponed the strikes at the Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu Hospital for 60 days; however, the unions stated they do not recognize the decision to suspend the strikes and will persist with their demands. Finance Minister Özdemir Berova announced a partial salary indexation — 50% will be paid immediately, with the remaining 50% deferred until January depending on inflation by the end of June.

Residents: expect disruptions in the work of government institutions, school closures and exam cancellations, limited hospital operations (except for emergency cases), and possible traffic restrictions in central Nicosia. Monitor official announcements from the authorities and unions for updates on schedules and service availability.