The annual memorial service for Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of the Republic, was held Sunday at the Kykkos Monastery.

The church service was officiated by Bishop of Kykkos and Tiliria, Nikiforos.

A memorial speech was delivered by Health Minister and presidential candidate Stavros Malas, who represented the President of the Republic Demetris Christofias and the Government.

The President of the House of Representatives Yiannakis Omirou was represented by the MP of the socialist movement EDEK, Roula Mavronikolas.

The memorial service was also attended by leaders and members of political parties, military and police officials.

After the memorial, a sanctum was held at the tomb of Makarios III at Throni, followed by the laying of wreaths.