Nicosia: The funeral of Katie Clerides, a former MP and former Vice-President of the Democratic Rally (DISY), was marked by deep sorrow and respect as it gathered leaders, representatives from Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot parties, current and former MPs, and a large crowd. The ceremony took place following her passing on Monday at the age of 76, with esteemed figures such as the President of the Republic and the President of the House of Representatives in attendance.
According to Cyprus News Agency, eulogies were delivered by notable personalities including the President of DISY and House President, Annita Demetriou, as well as Meltem Onurkan-Samani, a friend of the deceased and founder of the Cyprus Peace and Dialogue Centre (CPDC), and Andia Ioannides Charaki, another close friend. The ceremony also featured a poem read by her maid of honour, Androula Shati.
In her eulogy, Annita Demetriou highlighted Katie Clerides’ unique character, stating that Clerides “never fit into stereotypes, she did not fit into titles, she did not fit into boxes,” describing her as a rare individual, a cherished friend, and an esteemed colleague. Demetriou emphasized Clerides’ enduring hope and dedication to see her country free and reunited, noting her unyielding efforts toward this goal until her last breath.
Meltem Onurkan-Samani praised Clerides as a role model in the pursuit of peace, acknowledging her frankness about the challenges of achieving a peace accord even decades after 1964. Clerides’ commitment to fostering understanding stood out in an environment often dominated by rhetoric, Onurkan-Samani noted.
Andia Ioannides Charaki reflected on Clerides’ contributions through her writings and political actions, focusing on conflict resolution, social justice, and the rapprochement of the two communities towards a unified homeland with equal rights. Clerides was remembered as a beacon of hope and dedication to justice, never hesitating to critique deviations from her party’s principles and exemplary political standards.
Katie Clerides, the daughter of former President of Cyprus Glafcos Clerides, was born in London on May 10, 1949. She served three terms as a Democratic Rally MP in the 1990s and early 2000s and was the first woman Vice President of the party. Her legacy includes her strong advocacy for the reunification of Cyprus, human rights, and animal rights.