Akel nominates Stefanos Stefanou for house president
On Wednesday, the Central Committee of the Akel party unanimously endorsed its Secretary-General, Stefanos Stefanou, as its official candidate for the presidency of the House of Representatives. The party stated that Stefanou possesses the necessary political experience and democratic spirit for the role. This decision follows discussions held by the party's leadership, which were subsequently approved by the Central Committee. The party confirmed that it will not engage in dialogue with the far-right or cooperate with the Democratic Rally (DISY). Stefanou's candidacy is currently supported by the Akel-Left-Social Alliance and the Alma movement, which together are expected to provide at least 19 votes. The party has authorized its political bureau to continue negotiations with other parliamentary parties to broaden support for the candidacy. Meanwhile, the Central Committee also decided unanimously that Giorgos Loukaidis will continue to serve as the party's parliamentary spokesperson. Other potential candidates, including Nicholas Papadopoulos of Diko, were considered but ultimately rejected by the party for this specific nomination.