Thousands of people have gathered outside the presidential palace in the capital of #Cyprus, Nicosia, to protest against #SafePass and what they consider to be pressure to get vaccinated against #COVID-19, local media report.
The protesters gathered at Human Rights Square outside the presidential palace on Sunday. The demonstration, organized through social media groups, was peaceful, although there was police presence, Cyprus Mail said.
According to the newspaper, the protesters were calling for the abolition of SafePass, an end to twice-weekly tests for unvaccinated employees and were demanding a declaration from the presidency that vaccination against the coronavirus will not be mandatory. The demonstrators were also calling for better, earlier treatment against COVID-19 in favor of vaccines.
SafePass -- a document to ascertain proof of virus immunity for individuals who wish to visit public places -- was introduced in Cyprus in May, but it was initially required only in some indoor venues. Starting from July 20, SafePass will become mandatory almost in all public places, including transport, shops and cafes
The protest was organised through social media groups. From videos posted online, a heavy police presence could be seen but they did not engage with the protesters.
According to their statement posted online, the demonstrators called for an immediate abolition of the SafePass, the continuation of free rapid tests, which will end on August 1, and end to twice-weekly tests for all unvaccinated employees.
They also want a declaration from the presidency that vaccination will not be mandatory, an ended to the separation of people into vaccinated and unvaccinated, an end to “the intimidation, blackmail, and threats of dismissal against public and private sector workers because they refuse to get the jab”.
Protesters also call for “the immediate abolition of illegal and unconstitutional decrees”.
0 Comments