AKEL searches for the formula to return to power: Leadership seeks consensus first and a candidate later, while three schools of thought shape the debate

The AKEL party is preparing its strategy for the upcoming presidential elections by prioritizing political alliances and program consensus over selecting a candidate. General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou has initiated a long-term internal process, with a final decision expected in early 2027. The party is currently debating three potential paths: a purely party-based candidate, replicating the 2023 broad coalition model, or selecting a new figure with wider social appeal. AKEL aims to balance party cohesion with the objective of returning to government.