The National Unity Party (UBP) has strongly criticised recent statements made by Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulides and Archbishop Georgios during their Easter messages, calling them divisive and unacceptable.

UBP Secretary General Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu condemned the remarks, stressing that “the solution in Cyprus lies in real-world conditions, not at the negotiation table.”

In his statement, UBP Secretary General Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu expressed astonishment at how both the Greek Cypriot leader and the Archbishop used a religious occasion to stage what he described as a political show.

He condemned their words with regret, especially comments implying the expulsion of Turkish Cypriots from the island.

“Such remarks show that hatred towards Turks is still alive among certain Greek Cypriot officials, and this must be recognized by all,” he said.

Hasipoğlu drew attention to the influence of the Church on Greek Cypriot politics, arguing that this was the fundamental difference between Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot political traditions.

He recalled how the Orthodox Church had historically intervened to derail peace efforts.

“The Orthodox Church has always played a radical role in Greek Cypriot political life. Every time we neared a solution, they stepped in to sway the outcome,” he stated.

Hasipoğlu reiterated the existence of two peoples, two states, and two identities on the island, underlining that Türkiye’s active and effective guarantee remains vital for the Turkish Cypriot people.

He concluded that the remarks made by Christodoulides and Archbishop Georgios served no purpose other than to poison relations between the two communities.