ELAM prepares for internal elections ahead of 2028 presidential cycle

The ELAM party in Cyprus is currently organizing its first-ever comprehensive electoral congress to restructure its leadership ahead of the 2028 presidential elections. Internal elections are scheduled for October 24 and November 2, with the final congress expected to take place on November 28 and 29. Party leader Christos Christou and Deputy President Petros Kountoureshis are expected to retain their positions unchallenged, while a contest is anticipated for three vice-presidential seats, following the resignations of Vangelis Tsaggaridis and Michalis Michail. Six candidates, including Stelios Nearchou and Lino Papagianni, are reportedly seeking these spots.

Strategically, ELAM is weighing its approach to the 2028 presidential vote, balancing the possibility of an independent candidacy—a traditional practice—against potential alliances. Party leadership has expressed an ambition to enter the executive branch as the country's third-largest political force, following their 10.9% result in parliamentary elections. Reports suggest a possible, albeit unconfirmed, interest in supporting incumbent Nikos Christodoulides, though internal debate persists. The party, which began breaking its long-standing political isolation in 2021 by supporting Annita Demetriou, aims to use the upcoming congress to finalize its electoral policy and solidify its path for the next five years.