Bengihan Slams Government Over Tourism Neglect, Targets Arıklı for Inaction at Kyrenia Port

In a written statement, Bengihan took aim at Public Works and Transport Minister Erhan Arıklı, accusing him of failing in his duties and calling on him to take responsibility for the worsening conditions at Kyrenia Tourism Port.

“Ministerial office is not an honorary title, but a position of duty,” Bengihan said. “Those who fail to fulfil their responsibilities have no right to remain in office.”

He pointed out that although the government often promotes tourism as a leading sector in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the industry is deteriorating due to mismanagement and indifference. Bengihan claimed that the country’s natural beauty and coastal location—ideally suited for tourism—are being squandered by “incompetent administrators.”

Comparing the northern part of the island to the south, Bengihan said tourism revenues significantly boost the southern economy, while in the north, the situation worsens each year.

Highlighting the air conditioning problem at Kyrenia Tourism Port, Bengihan noted that the units have been non-functional for over a month. He said port workers and travellers are suffering in extreme heat, and that tourists’ first impression of the country is shaped by this “inhumane” experience. “This alone reflects the current state of our tourism sector,” he added.

Bengihan also criticised Minister Arıklı’s frequent social media activity, saying that while the minister finds time to comment on a wide range of issues online, he has failed to address even basic problems like the broken air conditioning system at the port.

He concluded by urging accountability: “Minister Arıklı must be reminded that his position is one of responsibility. Anyone unable or unwilling to fulfil that responsibility should not hold office.”