Former Akel MP Irene Charalambides joins Alma movement

Former Akel member of parliament Irene Charalambides has officially announced her collaboration with the Alma movement, led by former auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides. Charalambides, who left Akel in February and has since served as an independent MP, will participate in the movement's ballot for the parliamentary elections scheduled for May 24. To facilitate this cooperation, the Alma executive secretariat amended its statutes to allow non-members to run as candidates, respecting Charalambides' request to maintain her independence. During a press conference, the MP emphasized the fight against corruption as a core priority, characterizing it as an additional tax on citizens. Her policy platform includes constitutional reforms, specifically aimed at limiting the authority of the executive branch and increasing the accountability of state officials, such as the attorney-general. She stated that the name Alma represents dignity, accountability, reform, and development. The collaboration aims to restore public trust in state institutions by strengthening judicial oversight. While Charalambides previously denied formal agreements, she held meetings with the Alma leadership throughout the spring to finalize the terms of this partnership.