Northern Cyprus reshuffles cabinet following Kyrenia shipwreck

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has undergone a cabinet reshuffle following a shipwreck off the coast of Kyrenia on August 30. Erhan Arıklı, the Minister of Public Works and Transport, has been removed from his post. In his place, former TRNC Prime Minister Faiz Sucuoğlu has been appointed.

In a parliamentary session, Arıklı addressed the incident, denying allegations that he personally authorized the vessel's departure or bypassed technical safety standards. He noted that technical inspection authority for ships was transferred to Türk Loydu in 2003 and that the Ports Department lacks specialized inspection personnel. Arıklı stated that he felt targeted by political accusations despite following existing regulations.

Additionally, Olgun Amcaoğlu has been removed as the Minister of Economy and Energy, with veteran politician Hasan Taçoy appointed to the position. Prime Minister Ünal Üstel previously indicated that the dismissal of Arıklı was intended to ensure there is no doubt during the ongoing investigation and judicial process regarding the maritime accident.