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Meeting at Ministry of Justice for Early Planning in Managing 'Lambatzi' Traditions

Published February 20, 2026, 17:09
Meeting at Ministry of Justice for Early Planning in Managing 'Lambatzi' Traditions

A meeting chaired by the Minister of Justice, Kostas Fytiris, was held on February 19, 2026, with representatives from the Police, Fire Service, Union of Municipalities, and Union of Communities of Cyprus, aiming for early planning to manage the 'Lambatzi' tradition during Holy Week. The meeting resulted in an agreement for the prompt mobilization of the Police to prevent and effectively manage any incidents, as well as to address phenomena that distort the character of the tradition, such as the early gathering of materials and causing damage. The Minister of Justice emphasized the importance of preserving traditions, but also the need for them to be carried out safely and organized, within the responsibilities of the Municipalities and the Police, in order to protect human life, property, and public order. Maintaining safety and public order during the 'Lambatzi' tradition is a priority for the Ministry of Justice. It was also agreed to have direct communication between the Police and the Municipalities and Communities to record areas with historically recurring problems, in order to have targeted preparation. Municipalities and Communities will designate specific contact persons for continuous communication with the relevant services. The cooperation and early preparation of all involved are considered essential for the safe conduct of the tradition. A new meeting is scheduled in one month, with the aim of evaluating the progress of implementation of the agreements and further coordinating actions in anticipation of Easter. The Ministry of Justice emphasizes that cooperation and early preparation are necessary to avoid incidents observed in previous years and ensure the safe conduct of the 'Lambatzi' tradition.