In addition, Şahiner raised concerns about a secret report related to an arbitration board established under a supplementary contract. He alleges that this report, kept hidden from the public, may provide Turanlı with even more financial benefits, potentially worth hundreds of millions of euros. Furthermore, Şahiner contends that the inclusion of an arbitration clause undermines the judiciary in North Cyprus, allowing external authorities to resolve disputes instead of local courts.
This situation has sparked public controversy, with accusations of favouritism and financial misconduct by the government in favour of specific business interests.
*Ercan Airport has been experiencing significant power issues since its new terminal’s inauguration. Despite tax exemptions and substantial investments, the airport continues to operate on an unstable electricity supply, which has led to multiple disruptions. Power cuts have been frequent, resulting in flight delays and other operational challenges.
For example, there have been reports of two-hour power cuts shortly after the terminal opened, which impacted communications between pilots and air traffic controllers, forcing them to use mobile phones to communicate—a serious breach of aviation safety standards. Additionally, the airport’s baggage handling system failed, leaving passengers stranded with their luggage at the check-in area or requiring them to retrieve it directly from the tarmac. Power cuts also affected the airport’s jet bridges, stranding passengers on planes.
The problems persist, with reports indicating that backup generators have been installed but are not automatically kicking in due to power fluctuations at the substation supplying the airport. Despite these efforts, the situation remains unresolved, and it seems likely to continue in the near future due to the region’s strained electricity supply. [Ed.]
