Alpha News

AKEL Presents Election Slate with Sharp Criticism

Published January 24, 2026, 10:12

AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou presented the party's candidate list for the 2026 Parliamentary Elections, emphasizing the importance of the elections as a critical political choice rather than a means of protest. In his speech, he focused on issues such as inflation, housing, energy, bank excess profits, and transparency, sharply criticizing the government and parties he believes serve private economic interests. Mr. Stefanou highlighted the role of Parliament as an institutional pillar of control and accountability of the executive branch, emphasizing its ability to influence implemented policies. At the same time, he warned about the rise of the far-right, characterizing it as a serious threat to democracy. The AKEL candidate list was presented as a result of the "voice of the many," with increased participation of young people and women, aiming to strengthen the Left in Parliament and change the balance of power in favor of society. Stefanou rejected the idea that the elections are merely a "transfer window" or a "communication fiesta." Overall, the presentation of AKEL's candidate list marks an intense election battle, with the party focusing on the social and economic problems of Cyprus and calling for a political change that will benefit citizens.