Democratic Rally

Turkish Cypriots will shape the result and the political landscape

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Turkish Cypriots will shape the result and the political landscape

The European Parliament elections in Cyprus allow Turkish Cypriots to participate as equal citizens, influencing the post-election political scene within the Greek Cypriot community. Turkish Cypriots have a significant privilege in electing six members of the European Parliament, potentially impacting the outcome. AKEL, with the support of leftist Turkish Cypriot parties, aims to leverage this advantage in the upcoming elections, while DISY faces the risk of a significant defeat if it cannot attract Turkish Cypriot voters. DISY’s strategy is to mobilize dissatisfied and disengaged voters to avoid an internal party crisis.

Turkish Cypriots and abstention will decide the outcome of the elections

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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.

Three MEPs headed for re-election

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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.

Election debates fail to spark interest

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Election debates fail to spark interest

– Cyprus voters will be handed six ballot papers to choose mayors, deputy mayors, municipal councillors, village leaders, council members, district council presidents, and members of the European Parliament.
– The number of mayors has been reduced and the number of deputy mayors has been tripled due to a municipal reform.
– Some new municipalities will have a greater population, while others will be the biggest in area.
– Some municipalities and village councils refused to merge due to personal egos.
– There is frustration among voters about the new roles created and candidates not knowing their duties.
– Local issues are not being discussed, and there is a lack of female participation in MEP and mayoral candidates.
– The turnout on election day could be smaller than ever due to growing apathy.

The far-right has already been normalised

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The far-right has already been normalised

The rise of the far-right is becoming normalized in Cyprus and beyond, with political parties adopting its rhetoric in an attempt to tame it. This normalization is not exclusive to Cyprus or Greece, as far-right parties are gaining power in countries like Italy, Hungary, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Spain, Romania, Slovakia, Czechia, Belgium, the USA, and Argentina. The far-right’s communication skills and appeal in a conspiracy-obsessed society are contributing to its success, raising concerns about a return to pseudo-eugenic and misanthropic theories reminiscent of the Middle Ages.

63 vie for 6 MEP seats

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63 vie for 6 MEP seats

A total of 63 candidates are challenging the six seats allocated to Cyprus in the next European Parliament elections, which will be held on June 9.

Christodoula March: the struggle continues

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Christodoula March: the struggle continues

The text describes the author’s participation in the Christodoula March, an annual awareness and fundraising event organized by the Anti-Cancer Society. The author was inspired by the presence of children at the event and advocates for a society where individuals facing trials like cancer do not have to fight alone. The author is running for municipal councilor in Strovolos with a commitment to offering aid and improving the community for all residents.

The stakes and challenges of the European Parliament elections – The battle for first place and seats

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The stakes and challenges of the European Parliament elections – The battle for first place and seats

The battle for the lead between DISY and AKEL in the European elections is not just about impressions but also about substance. The outcome of the ballot on 9 June will have significant implications for the political landscape. Additionally, the result of the election is crucial for DIKO and its chairman, Nicolas Papadopoulos, who has a personal stake in maintaining the party’s numbers and his role as its regulator. ELAM’s performance remains unpredictable, while EDEK and DIPA are vying for the 5th place and hoping for any losses by larger parties to secure their presence in the European Parliament. The Ecologists are aiming for a strong showing, and the new party Volt is also a factor in this election. Furthermore, three Turkish Cypriots are standing as candidates for the first time, which could impact voter turnout.

Kazamias refutes having banking background, responds to president

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Kazamias refutes having banking background, responds to president

Former Minister of Finance Kikis Kazamias responded to comments made by President Nikos Christodoulides, stating that he has never claimed to be a banker but an honest collaborator. Kazamias’ statement was provoked by the President’s reply to criticism from AKEL regarding the appointment of the new governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus. President Christodoulides had pointed out that three Finance Ministers under AKEL’s governance were bankers, prompting Kazamias to clarify his background and highlight his service as the general manager of the Co-operative Savings Bank of Limassol.