Larnaca, Cyprus. Livestock farmers continued a protest at the Rizoelia roundabout on Thursday, blocking key road access as Justice Minister Costas Fitiris visited the site. Police diverted traffic after movement in the area came to a halt.
Blockades expanded and traffic diverted
Farmers initially partially closed the roundabout before extending the blockade to both directions of traffic. Police redirected vehicles, and motorists were advised to use alternative routes due to congestion.
Minister urges safety as protesters demand an answer
At the scene, Fitiris spoke with demonstrators and called for safety measures to be observed. “Do your protest but safely. Don’t let people who are not to blame suffer,” he said.
Protesters asked for a government position, saying, “give us an answer then and we’ll stop.” During a tense exchange, a farmer approached Fitiris and handed over a young child, presumably his son, saying, “you take him and feed him then, I cannot put food on the table sir”.
Protest duration and further disruption
Protesters said they intended to remain at the location until 2pm and warned of further measures if there was no response from the government. Officers were deployed to prevent escalation and to maintain movement for emergency and official vehicles.
Parts of the group extended closures to additional access points, and protesters claimed the port of Larnaca was also affected.
Dispute over foot-and-mouth disease measures
Farmers are protesting against culling policies introduced under disease protocol measures for foot-and-mouth disease. They argue that vaccination options under EU regulations should be considered in cases where infections are limited.
What response do you expect from the government to the farmers’ demand for vaccination options instead of culling?
