Singer calls off controversial Kyrenia concert

A “PEACE and friendship” concert in the north by one of Greece’s best-known singers had to be cancelled on Saturday because of reaction by Greek Cypriots.

Singer Lefteris Pantazis had been due to sing at the Kyrenia Rocks Hotel, a property owned by a Greek Cypriot refugee, sparking controversy; the singer was accused of selling out national principles for personal gain.

Reportedly Pantazis called off the concert at the last moment, appearing on stage and apologising to his waiting audience.

“A problem has been created because of the show, so perhaps it is better not to worsen things,” he told fans.

There were conflicting reports as to the number of Greek Cypriots attending the concert; some say as many as 120, others only a few dozen.

On a live radio show after the concert was called off, Pantazis said it had not been his intention to cause any trouble.

Government officials were quick to comment on the affair, which touches on the sensitive issue of the use of property owned by Greek Cypriots in the north.

Foreign Minister George Iacovou attributed the muddle to the fact that the singer’s agents (who were not Greeks) “misunderstood” the situation on the island following the partial lifting of restrictions on free movement. Iacovou also said the government was still opposed to overnight stays by Greek Cypriots in the occupied areas.

For his part, Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said the affair was now considered “closed” since the concert had been called off. The spokesman went on to praise Pantazis for his “sensitivity” and his decision to cancel.

The spokesman said he was not aware whether any investigations were under way to determine the identities of the Greek Cypriots who had booked hotel rooms for the night.