GREEK and Turkish Cypriots celebrated Kataklysmos together in Famagusta for the first time in 30 years on Sunday, but organisers said yesterday they had since been accused of being traitors.
The bi-communal celebration was attended by United Democrats leader George Vassiliou and his wife Androulla, former Communications Minister Kikis Kazamias and former government spokesmen Michalis Papapetrou and Christos Stylianides. Also attending were Irish ambassador John Swift and his wife.
“This was really important as he represents the Irish EU presidency,” said one of the organizers, who wished to remain anonymous because he said he would like to continue his bi-communal work “without being harassed”.
The event, attended by around 4,000 people, both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, was organised by the Movement for the Reunification of Cyprus, Socialists for the Solution, Platform for Unification and Solution Now, the New Cyprus Association, the Famagusta Refugee Movement and the Force of the United Cyprus, among others. The event was supported by the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Commerce and the Turkish Cypriot Businessmen’s Association and local Turkish Cypriot organisations from the Famagusta area.
It was held at the area of the Constantia Beach, near what is now known as the Palm Beach just outside the fenced-off area of Varosha.
“The atmosphere was great and everyone was friendly with each other,” said the organiser. The cultural programme included traditional Cypriot dancing and other cultural events –folklore, and poetry and song. There was also a traditional fair with stands and traditional sweets.
“The same songs were being sung in Greek and Turkish because we have the same Cypriot music,” said the organiser. “People were really enthusiastic and happy.”
Several newspapers were yesterday critical of the event after various politicians said it was contributing to the partition of the island.
“There was some criticism from the usual circles,” said the organiser. “I personally take it as an honour to be called a traitor by people like Marios Matsakis and Lazaros Mavros.”
