Cypriot parliament moves to amend electoral law over social media posts

On October 15, 2026, the Parliamentary Committee on Interior in Cyprus discussed two legislative proposals submitted by AKEL and ALMA aimed at amending electoral laws regarding online speech. The initiative follows an ongoing criminal investigation into 28 individuals and online platforms, who were summoned to Police Headquarters for allegedly violating Article 63 of the Law on the Election of Members of the House of Representatives by posting political content on the eve or day of the elections.

Committee President Aristos Damianou labeled the current enforcement a form of "intimidation" and noted that Article 63 is an outdated provision. While the law has historically not led to criminal prosecutions, the recent surge in activity has prompted lawmakers to seek reforms that protect citizens' freedom of expression. During the session, Damianou also raised concerns regarding potential coordination between political figures and third parties to bypass election day restrictions.

The proposed amendments seek to exclude natural persons from existing prohibitions on publishing election-related content during the prohibited period. The Ministry of Interior has been granted 15 days to provide its formal comments on the proposals. The legislative process aims to ensure that future electoral conduct balances the need for order with the fundamental right to free speech without risking criminal prosecution for ordinary citizens.