Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, who also leads the National Unity Party (UBP), delivered a speech at the "Vision Meeting and Candidate Introduction" event organised for Famagusta mayoral candidate Koral Bozkurt in the historic Namık Kemal Square. Üstel described Famagusta as one of the most significant cities in Northern Cyprus, citing its history, port, universities, commerce and people, and argued that the city deserves stronger infrastructure, well-maintained roads, clean streets and a liveable environment.
Referring to the heavy rainfall that has recently exposed the city's infrastructure shortcomings, Üstel drew attention to the difficulties residents faced due to flooding on the streets. "What matters is not making statements after the rain, but taking precautions beforehand," he said, stressing that their approach to municipal governance is built around delivering lasting solutions. He summed up his priorities with the words: "I say service first. I say local government first. I say Famagusta first."
Üstel also launched sharp criticism at the opposition, saying: "The opposition talks; we act. They criticise; we produce solutions. While they explain their excuses, we work to complete the projects we have started." He noted that since taking office, his government has pursued investments in roads, schools and health, alongside social support programmes, acknowledging that shortcomings exist but insisting they do not shy away from problems.
Praising candidate Koral Bozkurt, Üstel said he is a native of Famagusta who knows the city's infrastructure challenges first-hand. He highlighted Bozkurt's background in architecture, which has given him experience in urban planning, project development and investment, and noted his significant roles in the business world and the sports community, including a management position at Mağusa Türk Gücü. Üstel said Bozkurt has developed comprehensive projects covering everything from infrastructure and transport to industrial zones and coastal improvements, and pledged government support for viable initiatives.
Üstel noted that UBP will contest the 6 December general and local elections with 18 candidates across 18 municipalities, guided by 18 key principles set out under a local government reform programme. He identified easy access to services, efficient use of resources, transparency, accountability, strong infrastructure and planned urbanisation as top priorities. He closed with a pledge: "You will see a transformed Famagusta through the works he delivers. I give you my word as UBP leader and Prime Minister."
