AKEL party criticizes government economic policies ahead of elections

General Secretary of the AKEL party, Stefanos Stefanou, recently outlined the party's platform and electoral objectives. He stated that the primary goal is to increase AKEL's presence in Parliament to better address social issues, including inflation, housing, and energy costs. The party emphasized that many citizens feel anger and frustration due to the current economic climate. Citing a study by the Central Bank of Cyprus, AKEL argued that living standards for low- and middle-income earners are declining as wages fail to meet basic needs. Stefanou accused the government of prioritizing banks and wealthy interests over the needs of the general population. In response to these economic challenges, AKEL has proposed increasing the minimum wage, expanding the cost-of-living allowance (ATA) to all private sector employees, and strengthening collective labor agreements. The party maintains that current government measures are insufficient and fragmented. Voters are encouraged by the party leadership to evaluate these proposals in the upcoming elections.