AKEL begins preparations for the 2028 presidential elections in Cyprus

Following a Central Committee meeting, the opposition party AKEL officially commenced preparations for the 2028 presidential elections in Cyprus. General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou has emphasized the party's goal of achieving a 'progressive change,' framing it as a necessity to end what the party describes as over 13 years of detrimental governance. The leadership is actively exploring potential coalitions with other political forces to increase their electoral prospects, noting that such alliances could lead to unexpected political outcomes.

AKEL parliamentary representative Giorgos Loukaidis expressed deep concern regarding a potential electoral alliance between incumbent President Nikos Christodoulides, the DIKO party, and ELAM. Loukaidis characterized ELAM as a 'camouflaged Golden Dawn' and argued that such a cooperation would pose risks to democratic institutions, human rights, and the handling of the Cyprus problem. While the party is currently open to various strategies, including the possibility of a partisan candidacy from its own ranks, such as Stefanos Stefanou, the upcoming period will be defined by internal discussions and external negotiations to secure a viable path for the election.

The party maintains that the political climate within the Central Committee remains united and determined, focusing on the perceived failures of current policies that have disproportionately affected the middle class. Further developments are expected as the party continues its outreach and formalizes its strategic roadmap.