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We are here today to honour the memory of a great hero, the agronomist Kyriakos Matsis, who dedicated his life to the struggle for the freedom of Cyprus.
Kyriakos Matsis was a rare figure, a unique personality, a model of dedication and bravery. Born on 2 May 1926 in Palaichori, child of a rural family, he graduated from the primary school of his village and later from the Greek Gymnasium of Famagusta, with distinctions and praise for both his intellectual and national activity. From an early age he stood out for his principles and ideals and never missed an opportunity to proclaim his love for his country and his faith in God.
In 1946, Matsis left on a scholarship from the Cyprus Agricultural Society to study at the School of Agricultural Sciences of the University of Thessaloniki. During his stay there, he never ceased to speak passionately about the Cyprus problem at student events, proclaiming the rights of Cyprus and awakening Greek consciences.
Returning to Cyprus in 1952, Kyriakos Matsis offered with passion and selflessness his scientific knowledge for the progress and development of agricultural production. Deeply sensitive to the people of toil and the farmer's right, Matsis toured the countryside, giving advice to farmers.
Self-sacrifice for Matsis was identical with his agonistic existence. In September 1955, at Digeni's den in Kakopetria, where they were surrounded, he refused the Chief's order to flee, remaining beside him, automatic in hand, until the danger was over. On 9 January 1956, he was arrested on the charge of belonging to EOKA and taken to the interrogation centre in Omorphita. The British know that he is an important member of the organization and a close associate of Digeni. With his characteristic frankness, he does not deny it. He is questioned by notorious interrogators, but Matsis speaks to them with courage about the traditions of the Greeks, about the fate of aching Romiosis, about the duty to fight for freedom. He even dares to reverse the course of the interrogations and ask them directly what they would do in his position. Such dignity and courage was not expected by the brutal interrogators. They isolate him and subject him to horrific torture. But his soul does not break. He remains brave and fearless.
His case attracts the interest of Harding himself, who attempts to buy him off to betray Digenes by offering him fabulous sums and tracts of land abroad. But he did not know Kyriakos' soul well. Offended, the hero stood up and angrily replied with the unforgettable, unsurpassed, timeless phrase: "We do not fight for money, but for virtue". A few months later, Matsis would manage to escape, continuing his struggle until his martyr's death. He was convinced that the development of agriculture was essential for the freedom of the country and the prosperity of its inhabitants.
Kyriakos Matsi's contribution to Cyprus is invaluable. His efforts both in the struggle for freedom and in the development of agriculture are a permanent monument in the history of Cyprus.
We therefore have an obligation to continue his work, to honour his memory and to keep alive the ideals he served.
Let us continue to work with dedication and love for our country, offering future generations an independent, free and prosperous Cyprus.
Thank you.
(BG)
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