Cyprus broadcaster head calls Erhürman an ‘occupying leader’

Pavlos Pavlu, Chairman of the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (RIK), has sparked controversy following remarks regarding Tufan Erhürman. In response to inquiries from Politis newspaper about whether news staff were instructed to label Erhürman an ‘occupying leader’, Pavlu stated that the board does not have the authority to instruct journalists on how to present news.

However, Pavlu characterized the label as his own personal assessment, asking, ‘What else can be said than an occupying leader?’ He criticized Erhürman for using official symbols during meetings, noting that the European Court of Justice has described the administration as being ‘dependent on Turkey.’

Pavlu also questioned the legitimacy of Erhürman’s election process and the influence of Turkey on the results. He further criticized Erhürman for participating in military parades in northern Cyprus. To address such sensitive issues, RIK is reportedly working with staff to develop a ‘Style Book’ to establish a standardized approach for broadcasting.