“A candidacy that does not prioritize a solution to the Cyprus problem on the agreed basis and within the agreed framework is not an option. A candidacy that would serve the current model of governance—in which the prosperity of the masses takes precedence over the needs of citizens—is not an option.”
Stefanos Stefanou – Secretary-General of AKEL
Speaking at the event marking the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of Cyprus (AKEL), Stefanos Stefanou described the characteristics of the candidate who will be the party’s nominee for the 2028 presidential election.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
“A candidacy that serves the interests of the few, perpetuating the shadows of corruption and collusion that have marred both the Anastasiades – Synagermou administration, as well as the Christodoulides administration.”
Stefanos Stefanou
These remarks by no means rule out Andreas Mavroyiannis.
However, one of his potential allies for the 2028 presidential race, Odysseas Michaelides’ ALMA party, does not seem particularly enthusiastic about this specific candidacy.
“I have nothing against the man. He ran a very good campaign in 2023. But he has now become identified with a specific party situation.”
Odysseas Michaelides – Head of ALMA
Odysseas Michailidis also ruled out a potential candidacy by Stefanos Stefanou, emphasizing that neither a party official nor any individual who has practically become synonymous with a party.
While the leader of Almas states that he is looking for a truly independent candidate, within DIKO, discussions have been intense for some time regarding the direction the party should take.
Health Minister and Deputy Chairman Neophytos Charalambides is following the path laid out by Energy Minister Michalis Damianos.
“DIKO has the President of the Republic and is not seeking a candidate for the 2028 elections. In fact, Nikos Christodoulides has recently expanded the Democratic Party’s participation in the government with two additional ministers. In any case, it is not yet time for such discussions.”
Neophytos Charalambides – Vice President of DIKO
At the same time, however, while Neophytos Charalambides is essentially sending a message to Nikolas Papadopoulos and those who are looking in a different direction, the DIKO President makes it clear that… things are still up in the air.
“No party has made its own decisions regarding the presidential election. No party official will preempt the decisions of the party’s collective bodies. All scenarios will be put on the table.”
Nikolas Papadopoulos – DIKO President
Consequently, Monday’s meeting is of particular interest, as the DIKO Secretariat will head up to the Presidential Palace to discuss matters with President Christodoulides.
See the report by Giorgos Georgiadis:
