AKEL presents 2026 parliamentary candidates amid criticism of government policies

AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou officially presented the party's candidates for the parliamentary elections scheduled for May 24, 2026. Presentation events were held at the Attikon Cultural Space in Paphos and in Frenaros for the Famagusta district. During the Paphos event, it was noted that the district gained a fifth parliamentary seat as of December 4, 2025, due to population changes. Stefanou used the gatherings to criticize the policies of President Nikos Christodoulides and previous DISY administrations regarding the economy and social welfare. He highlighted specific challenges including inflation, high housing costs, and rising interest rates affecting low and middle-income groups. Stefanou also warned of potential water and electricity shortages in 2026, attributing these risks to government inaction. The party stated its intent to shift political balances to address social inequalities and support the younger generation.