The “Active Citizens – Movement of United Cypriot Hunters” has called for respect for the presumption of innocence following the arrest of one of its parliamentary candidates in connection with an alleged assault on an assistant referee during a football match.
In its first public response, the Movement also alleged an organised campaign of intimidation against its members, including vandalism of election material.
The 38-year-old candidate, who is suspected of involvement in an incident in Larnaca in which an assistant referee was allegedly assaulted during a football match, denies any involvement, according to the Movement. It stressed that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until the completion of police investigations and judicial procedures.
At the same time, the Movement distanced itself from any conduct that exceeds “proper judgement and responsibility”, stating that while emotional reactions may be understandable, accountability applies to all individuals without exception. It added that anyone found to be disrespectful towards institutions and the rule of law would not be allowed to remain within its ranks.
The organisation said it is currently facing what it described as a coordinated escalation in pressure, pointing to repeated vandalism of campaign material and public targeting of its candidates in recent days.
Full statement:
“In recent hours and days, our Movement, Active Citizens – Movement of United Cypriot Hunters, has been confronted with incidents that cannot be ignored. These include vandalism of campaign material and candidates, as well as public targeting and media reports concerning another candidate of the Movement, all of which reflect an escalation beyond the limits of political culture.
We wish to be clear. Vandalism, targeting and public vilification have no place in a democratic society. We will not allow anyone to divide, intimidate or weaken our supporters. We remain united, calm and determined.
Regarding the candidate referred to in media reports, we reiterate that he denies any involvement and is entitled to the presumption of innocence until the facts are fully established and all relevant procedures are completed.
We also make clear that, as a Movement, we do not endorse or excuse personal actions or reactions that, even under emotional pressure, may exceed the bounds of sound judgement and responsibility. While human emotion is understandable, accountability remains absolute. This applies to all.