AKEL and EKYSY criticize government pension and healthcare policies

Representatives of the AKEL party and the pensioners' organization EKYSY held a discussion event in Kaimakli on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, as part of a national campaign titled 'Third Age, Dignity – Rights – Life.' The organizers expressed strong dissatisfaction with the government's proposed pension reforms and current welfare measures, citing an inadequate response to the rising cost of living and specific healthcare challenges facing the elderly.

Key concerns raised during the event include the financial burden of medication costs, the need for increased support for low-income pensioners, and the lack of specialized geriatric clinics to address conditions such as dementia. Speakers, including AKEL Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Labor Committee Giorgos Koukoumas and EKYSY General Secretary Eutychios Papamichael, highlighted specific structural grievances. These include a request for a fair adjustment to the 12% pension penalty and the elimination of discriminatory practices against widowers whose spouses passed away prior to January 1, 2018.

Participants urged the government to take immediate action to improve living standards for retirees. The event serves as part of an ongoing advocacy effort to push for legislative amendments and policy shifts regarding social welfare and healthcare accessibility in Cyprus.