An estimated 10,000 people marched in Nicosia on February 20 – yet there was no spike in coronavirus cases two weeks later. We were told this was because they were wearing masks and (supposedly) social distancing.

An estimated 1,500 people had a carnival party in Limassol on March 14. This time there were no masks or distancing. We were told this was a disaster that threatened to undo the sacrifices of law-abiding people. Yet, two weeks later, there was no spike in cases in Limassol. Numbers went up briefly that Tuesday, then went down again.

How much more will it take for the government to acknowledge the obvious – that being outdoors is generally safe, and that the decree obliging us to wear a mask outdoors is therefore excessive, and should be repealed? Or do they only ‘follow the science’ when it suits them?

DP, Nicosia