Government and AKEL dispute social policy statistics

Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis released a statement criticizing the opposition party AKEL regarding recent claims about poverty and social exclusion. AKEL cited data suggesting 167,000 citizens were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2025. Letymbiotis responded by noting that the current 17.1% poverty risk rate is lower than the 27.8% reported in 2013 during AKEL's tenure. The government highlighted economic indicators, including an increase in the minimum wage from €940 in 2023 to €1,000 in 2024 and a scheduled increase to €1,088 by January 1, 2026. This represents an approximate 15.7% growth over three years. Additionally, the government reported a 4.9% increase in average monthly earnings and a 4.6% rise in median earnings. The spokesperson rejected AKEL's criticism, arguing that past policies led to higher unemployment and the need for social grocery stores. The two sides remain divided over the interpretation of long-term economic performance and current social welfare figures.