Politis

Erhurman Criticizes Christodoulides Over New Checkpoints: “Spoiling What’s Already Cooked”

Published February 27, 2026, 17:15
Erhurman Criticizes Christodoulides Over New Checkpoints: “Spoiling What’s Already Cooked”

T/C leader Tufan Erhurman expressed strong dissatisfaction with President Christodoulides' stance on the new checkpoints, accusing him of undermining discussions on the already proposed crossing points. Mr. Erhurman stated that upon assuming office, he found a map with four proposed new crossing points – Louroujina, Mia Milia, Athienou, and Aglantzia – which had already been discussed. He pushed for the Athienou-Aglantzia road to pass exclusively through the buffer zone, while the T/C side proposed alternative solutions, such as constructing a new road in the occupied territories or compensating for Greek Cypriot properties. Mr. Erhurman emphasized that the Mia Milia and Louroujina checkpoints would benefit both communities, while a second checkpoint in Nicosia would reduce traffic congestion at Agios Dometios. He also expressed the view that the Athienou-Aglantzia road would facilitate the movement of Greek Cypriots without bothering the T/C side. Mr. Erhurman's criticism focused on President Christodoulides' insistence on maintaining his initial position, even when justifications were exhausted. He characterized the attempt to discuss new checkpoints as an “attempt to undermine” existing proposals, using the Turkish saying “spoiling what’s already cooked.” Mr. Erhurman messaged that the T/C side would continue to work with sincerity and seriousness, while also informing the international community, avoiding, however, the “blame game”. He also expressed his displeasure with public statements, preferring discussions to be held behind closed doors.