AKEL general secretary criticizes Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation for lack of coverage

On November 7, 2026, the General Secretary of AKEL, Stefanos Stefanou, launched a sharp public critique against the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC/RIK), labeling the broadcaster's conduct as "unacceptable and disgraceful." The criticism follows the state media’s failure to cover the party’s centenary celebrations, specifically a large-scale event held on Friday, November 6, and an international symposium occurring on Saturday, November 7.

According to Stefanou, the Friday evening anniversary event was attended by a large crowd, including various ambassadors, Turkish Cypriot political parties, and delegations representing over 30 political parties from around the world. The General Secretary argues that the state broadcaster ignored these significant international and local political developments. He maintains that by failing to report on these activities, the organization has effectively neglected its institutional duty as a public service media provider to remain impartial and comprehensive in its political coverage.

This incident has initiated a broader public debate regarding the role and independence of state-funded media in Cyprus, particularly concerning the balanced reporting of political milestones for the country's oldest political party. Currently, there is no indication of a formal institutional response from CyBC regarding the claims made by the AKEL leadership.