The Cyprus Journalists’ Union has expressed strong concern over the conduct of British Bases judge Carl Gunsley towards Cypriot journalists during a hearing at the Dhekelia court.
The incident took place on Thursday, July 2, 2026, during proceedings linked to the appearance of the father of the two children who died in tragic circumstances.
According to a statement by the union, its board was briefed by reporters who were present in the courtroom to cover the case. They reported that the judge’s attitude towards members of the media was offensive, confrontational and arrogant.
The union said the judge issued lengthy warnings and instructions to journalists, referring to possible criminal consequences in cases of disrespect or disobedience towards the court.
It described those remarks as an unnecessary threat against media professionals, stressing that journalism cannot be carried out under intimidation and that freedom of expression must not be restricted by any judicial officer or court authority.
The board of the Cyprus Journalists’ Union also noted that a similar incident had been recorded in the recent past.
Such behaviour, it said, points to outdated practices and is not in line with the modern spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that should govern relations between judicial authorities and the media.
The union concluded that any obstruction of journalistic work is unacceptable, regardless of the authority or individual from whom it comes.
