A majority of citizens express dissatisfaction with the implementation of local government reform in Cyprus, according to a public opinion survey presented during the opening ceremony of the two-day 3rd Cyprus Forum Cities in Limassol, held under the theme “Building the Cities of Tomorrow, Today.”

The event is organised by the NGO Oxygen for Democracy, the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT), and the Municipality of Limassol. Among those addressing the forum were Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and Chinese Ambassador to Cyprus Liu Yantao, who notably referred to tariffs imposed by the United States.

During the first day of the forum, a public opinion poll of 1,000 people was presented regarding the local government reform process. According to the findings:

• 62% are little or not at all satisfied with how the reform is being implemented, particularly concerning the merging of municipalities and communities.

• 26% are very or fairly satisfied, and 12% responded “don’t know” or did not answer.

• 56% disagree with the number and structure of the new municipal entities created by the reform, while 30% agree, and 14% did not respond.

• A significant 70% believe the number of appointed officials is excessively high, 20% consider it adequate, and only 3% think it’s insufficient.

The public also assigns blame for the reform’s shortcomings:

• 56% hold the Government responsible,

• 45% blame Parliament,

• 87% believe there was inadequate consultation with citizens before the reform’s approval and implementation.

• After ten months of enforcement, 61% believe the reform does not benefit citizens, while 29% say it does, and 10% are unsure or declined to answer.

The forum continues today, Wednesday, with expert panels featuring public and private sector representatives, academics, and civil society, covering issues relevant to all regions of Cyprus.