Wednesday’s parliamentary session on controversial protest legislation abruptly ended after too few MPs turned up to begin the debate.

A key discussion on a bill to replace Cyprus’ current law on public gatherings and parades was halted when the House legal affairs committee failed to meet the minimum number of members required. The bill, which has drawn criticism from legal experts and opposition MPs, aims to introduce a new legal framework for public assemblies.

However, the lack of quorum meant the clause-by-clause review scheduled for Wednesday could not proceed.

Akel MP Aristos Damianou said his party had prepared specific proposals to delete several articles from the draft law. But he noted that MPs from other parties, particularly those holding different views, were absent. Justice ministry representative Phaedra Grigoriou told the committee that the proposed law does not give any authority the power to ban protests or parades outright.

“Any restrictions must be based on justified decisions and clear criteria,” she said.

Concerns were also raised by the Cyprus Bar Association. Its representative, Stelios Hadjithomas, admitted the association had failed to submit its official position in time for the session. However, he warned of a major legal loophole.

“The current wording allows discretionary power without the possibility of administrative appeal. This leaves decisions effectively unchecked,” he said, adding that the association would submit further comments in due course.

The meeting was formally suspended by Disy MP Fotini Tsiridou, acting chair of the committee, who confirmed that a new date would be announced to all invited participants. The bill remains on hold, with divisions over civil rights and government control still unresolved.