Turkish Cypriots and abstention will decide the outcome of the elections

Turkish Cypriots and abstention will decide the outcome of the elections

The political landscape in Cyprus remains uncertain a week before the double election showdown. The top spot in the European elections is a close contest between DISY and AKEL, with DIKO and ELAM battling for third place. The percentages that DIKO and ELAM achieve are crucial, as their race could result in higher-than-expected percentages for both parties. The smaller parties are also uncertain about the support they will receive. A key factor in the upcoming elections is the turnout of Turkish Cypriot voters, with an estimated increase in participation expected. This increase could potentially influence the final results, especially in the battle between AKEL and DISY for the top spot. DISY’s level of voter consolidation will also play a critical role in the election outcome, as it could impact the percentages of other parties. Discontent and disagreements within DISY may lead to alternative votes going to parties like ELAM or independent candidate Phidias Panayiotou.

Our View: Elections: too many candidates, not enough policy ideas

Our View: Elections: too many candidates, not enough policy ideas

Two different elections will be held simultaneously in Cyprus on June 9, 2024, with voters having to choose between 61 candidates for the European Parliament and 3,232 candidates for various local government positions.

Latest poll points to Elam securing seat in Europarliament

Latest poll points to Elam securing seat in Europarliament

Elam is edging out Diko in the MEP elections according to the latest CyBC poll.

Parties target undecided voters in final campaign push

Parties target undecided voters in final campaign push

Parties and candidates are intensifying their efforts as the pre-election period nears its end. A significant portion of the electorate has already decided on the elections, while others are undecided or considering not voting. Parties are focusing on convincing undecided voters, those who may not vote but have a history of voting, and dissatisfied voters looking to switch parties. Party organizers are fully mobilized, with leaders reaching out to target voters. Major parties face the challenge of retaining their percentages and limiting defections in the final stretch of the pre-election period. Communication efforts are being made to resonate with partisan audiences, with several parties holding final rallies. The tone of the campaign is expected to escalate, with attempts to create a polarized scenario with intense party confrontations.

Over 100,000 Turkish Cypriots registered to vote in EU elections

Over 100,000 Turkish Cypriots registered to vote in EU elections

Fact: A total of 103,269 Turkish Cypriots who live in the north have registered to vote in June’s European parliament elections.

Larnaca port and marina in flux as state replaces Kition

Larnaca port and marina in flux as state replaces Kition

Larnaca’s port and marina are now under state control following the collapse of a major development project. The Port Authority has taken over operations, deploying additional staff and private machinery services. The future management of the marina is uncertain, with discussions on potentially separating the port and marina projects gaining traction. The fate of Kition Ocean Holdings’ employees remains unclear, with trade unions advocating for their rights. The government is re-evaluating the initial development plan and considering future steps for the projects.

When darkness is normalised in politics

When darkness is normalised in politics

The far-right party ELAM has gained significant political space in Cyprus, attracting voters from various parties. This rise of the far-right is not just a Cypriot issue but a European and international phenomenon. The far-right thrives on crises and social inequalities, offering what seems like an attractive alternative to traditional parties. Despite some missteps, ELAM continues to influence public discussions and set the agenda, posing a potential nightmare for other parties and society as a whole. The focus should be on countering the far-right through effective policies and addressing pressing issues to prevent the normalization of fascism.

No state scholarships for those avoiding conscription

No state scholarships for those avoiding conscription

Males who have not completed their military service or who have secured an army deferment for reasons other than their college studies may not apply for a state scholarship.

Three MEPs headed for re-election

Three MEPs headed for re-election

Three of the six outgoing Cyprus MEPs seem set for re-election, with incumbents Loucas Fourlas, Giorgos Georgiou, and Costas Mavrides expected to retain their seats. The far-right party ELAM could win its first European seat.

When the ballot box speaks, it will be too late

When the ballot box speaks, it will be too late

The political scene in Cyprus is currently lacking substance and meaningful discourse as the election approaches on June 9. Major parties are focusing on internal rivalries and ideological confrontations, neglecting important issues for discussion. The failure to address societal problems and engage in coherent political discourse is leading to voter alienation and a rise in support for options offering hollow populism and better marketing through social media.