Labor disputes at Kıbrıs Türk Petrolleri

Labor disputes at Kıbrıs Türk Petrolleri (KPET) have escalated through a series of industrial actions led by the Revolutionary Workers' Federations (Dev-İş).

In late September, the union initiated a two-hour warning strike, citing management’s refusal to renew the Collective Bargaining Agreement and allegations of “psychological harassment (mobbing)” against employees left without tasks. By October, the conflict intensified at the Kalecik Filling Facilities following the issuance of termination notices to employees due to operational changes at Ercan Airport. Dev-İş President Semih Kolozali described these actions as an unlawful “worker massacre,” noting administrative errors such as issuing notices to employees nearing retirement.

On October 8, the union held further warning strikes at the Kalecik facilities, highlighting a shortage of at least 12 staff members and increased workloads. The union also challenged the company’s status, noting that while it appears private, it is a state-owned entity due to government golden shares, despite the government claiming no board decision was made regarding layoffs.

Following the failure of mediation facilitated by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu, the Petrol-İş Union launched an indefinite strike on October 14, 2026. The strike, which began at the Kalecik facilities, has resulted in the suspension of fuel deliveries to KPET dealers. The union maintains that the strike will continue until dismissal decisions are rescinded and job descriptions are properly established. During mediation, KPET General Manager Şahap Aşıkoğlu reportedly admitted to requesting security personnel to assist with technical tasks due to staffing gaps. Other unions, including Ada-Sen and GÜÇ-SEN, have expressed support for the striking workers.