Northern Cyprus unions demand minister's resignation after ferry disaster

Following a fatal ferry disaster, various labor unions and professional organizations in Northern Cyprus are demanding accountability and transparency regarding the incident. Multiple groups, including Kamu-Sen, Tel-Sen, and the Cyprus Turkish Medical Association, have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and those missing.

Union leaders are calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the vessel’s technical condition, maintenance history, seaworthiness certifications, and the inspection processes that allowed it to sail. Tel-Sen President Hakan Üredi noted that such disasters often occur when warnings are ignored, questioning whether previous passenger complaints against the operating company had been addressed by authorities.

Specifically, Kamu-Sen President Metin Atan has called for the resignation of the Minister of Public Works and Transport, Erhan Arıklı, citing political responsibility for the tragedy. Atan emphasized that the investigation must uncover the truth regarding oversight and ensure that any individuals or institutions found negligent are held legally accountable, regardless of their position.