Political parties on Monday commemorated the anniversary of Oxi Day’ Greece’s refusal to permit Axis troops to enter its territory during WWII on October 28, 1940, underlining the values of freedom, justice, and resistance that continue to resonate in Cyprus.
Disy stressed the timeless lessons of the 1940 resistance, calling the Greek ‘no’ “a proud stand against fascist-Nazi totalitarianism”.
The party highlighted Cyprus’ parallel struggle for sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity in the face of continued occupation.
“We must utilise the enduring lessons of 1940 and present shields against today’s challenges,” Disy said, stressing the goal of Cyprus’ reunification through dialogue, diplomacy and strengthened democratic values.
“We owe it to ourselves to intensify our efforts for a solution to the Cyprus problem, based on the agreed framework of a bizonal, bicommunal federation and UN resolutions.”
Akel celebrated October 28 as a powerful symbol of anti-fascist patriotism and recalled the bravery of the Greek resistance movement during the Nazi occupation.
The party described the Oxi Day legacy as a reminder of the heavy price paid by the Greek people and their unyielding fight against oppression, from battlefields to resistance movements across Greece.
It added that the day highlights the threats posed by “modern far-right movements” and the need for “a renewed commitment to democracy and peace.”
Edek underlined the importance of Oxi Day as a beacon of resistance to tyranny and highlighted the courage of the Greek people to oppose overwhelming forces.
“In 1940, the Greeks did not simply resist,” the party said.
“The decision made in 1940, without exaggeration, changed the course of European history.”
Edek also called upon Cyprus to follow Greece’s example and persist in its struggle for a solution that is democratic, viable and devoid of foreign military presence.
“We cannot tread any path other than that of the fight for liberation, through a solution respectful of human rights and European freedoms,” it said.
Elam also hailed Oxi Day as a steadfast model of defiance that Cypriots should emulate, describing it as “one of the most glorious anniversaries of Greek history”.
The party invoked Greece’s resistance as an inspiration to refuse any compromise on Cyprus’ sovereignty and territory.
“The message of October 28 is more relevant than ever. Alongside the sacrifices and the proud ‘no’ of 1940, there is no room for ‘yes’ or concessions on issues of national sovereignty,” Elam said, adding its refusal “to cede even one inch of our blood-stained land”.
The Green Party marked the day as a historic reminder of the dangers of fascism and of the importance of collective resistance.
“The Greeks upheld the ideals of freedom and democracy,” the statement said, further warning of “a resurgence of extremist ideologies across Europe”.
Dipa used the anniversary as an occasion for reflection on the values of freedom, dignity, and solidarity and highlighted the necessity of collective responsibility in Cyprus’ own efforts to overcome occupation.
“The day stands as a shining example of resistance against oppression, reminding us that the belief in freedom and independence can overcome even the greatest hardships,” Dipa’s statement said.
