Sofia Christodoulou-Makri elected as new EDEK president

On September 5, 2026, members of the Cypriot social democratic party EDEK went to the polls to elect a new president. The election followed a period of intense internal turmoil and the party's failure to secure parliamentary seats in the May elections, which previously led to the resignation of Nikos Anastasiou. Three candidates contested the leadership: Sofia Christodoulou-Makri, Kyriakos Mavronikolas, and Giorgos Kouttoukis, following the withdrawal of Marios Hannidis in favor of Mavronikolas.

Voting took place across nine polling stations in Cyprus, Greece, and London. Of the 8,000 eligible party members, only a fraction participated in the process, which was marred by controversy. Complaints arose regarding the exclusion of approximately 700 members from the electoral roll, with critics alleging the lists were improperly compiled by a committee appointed by the Central Committee rather than the one designated by the Extraordinary Congress. Additionally, the head of the Central Electoral Committee reportedly resigned during the voting day due to health reasons, further fueling tensions.

Following the completion of the ballot count, Sofia Christodoulou-Makri secured a victory, obtaining over 50% of the votes. Her win is considered pivotal as she takes on a transitional role, tasked with leading the party toward its upcoming elective congress in December and attempting to restore internal unity.