Limassol’s municipal council is divided after mayor Yiannis Armeftis unilaterally sponsored a bicommunal peace choir event, bypassing normal approval channels, it was reported on Wednesday.

The “Breaths of Peace” concert, organised by the bicommunal choir for peace, Lena Melanidou, will proceed on Friday despite objections from Disy, Diko and Edek councillors. Council records show this marks the first time the mayor has personally sponsored the annual event rather than routing support through the cultural committee.

A review of municipal minutes indicates the mayor’s office did not consult party leaders before the April 15 sponsorship announcement. This departure from procedure has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum.

“Previous bicommunal events followed established protocols,” confirmed Disy.

“We support reconciliation, but proper processes matter.”

The mayor’s office maintains that the sponsorship falls within executive powers. 

However, the new Cyprus association’s strong condemnation of objecting councillors has further inflamed tensions. Political observers note this comes as the mayor prepares his reelection campaign, with municipal elections due in December 2025. 

The choir itself remains caught in the middle. 

“We’ve always been about bringing people together,” said a founding member.

“This political fighting hurts our message.”