1 April 2025 - In 2025 we reflect on the path ahead
1 April is not just the start date of the anti-colonial struggle. It is a reminder of the words of Kyriakos Matsis that “…what has value is that on this land live those who water it with their sweat, and walk on it free, as masters, as sovereigns”.
At Volt we honour the memory of those who sacrificed themselves for what they sincerely believed in. In a divided homeland, however, in 2025, an objective assessment of historical events is needed, so that we know how we are moving forward in the future.
Although the EOKA struggle began with the aim of unification with Greece, it resulted in the proclamation of the Republic of Cyprus. However, few loved it at the time, and few understood the importance of protecting it. This is what we have today, a recognized and independent, bicommunal state, the result of the compromise between union and partition. However, our Democracy will remain lacking in the absence of the spirit of understanding and mutual respect, which are important prerequisites to overthrow the occupation. The sacrifice of the people who lost their lives for the homeland cannot and should not be instrumentalized for political or ideological gains with the lens of today. It is disrespectful to the memory of the people who sacrificed themselves.
Today, in 2025, we honor the sacrifice, but we also reflect on the course. We cannot change the past, but we can draw wisdom from it to build a better future. A future where freedom, peace and coexistence will not be just slogans, but an everyday reality for all the people of Cyprus. At Volt, we work towards this common vision for all - for a free, united, humane and just Cyprus.