Cyprus commemorates the 71st anniversary of the EOKA liberation struggle

On April 1, 2026, Cyprus observed the 71st anniversary of the commencement of the EOKA liberation struggle against British colonial rule. Official commemorations took place across the island, including memorial services and parades. President Nikos Christodoulides and House Speaker Annita Demetriou attended a religious service at the Apostolos Varnavas Cathedral in Nicosia, led by Archbishop Georgios. The President also visited the Imprisoned Graves to lay wreaths and participate in a memorial service. In the afternoon, a commemorative event was held at the Tassos Papadopoulos-Eleftheria sports hall by the EOKA Liberation Struggle Foundation. Government ministers represented the administration at various events in cities including Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and Paralimni. Political parties, including DISY, issued statements reflecting on the historical significance of the 1955 uprising, calling for continued efforts toward the reunification of Cyprus. Historical sources characterize the movement as a struggle for union with Greece, while contemporary political discourse emphasizes the pursuit of national sovereignty and the end of the current occupation.