ELAM and Accept LBGTI clash over political billboard in Strovolos

A controversy has emerged between the political party ELAM and the NGO Accept LGBTI regarding a campaign billboard. The billboard, placed in Strovolos, features the slogan 'No to marriage and adoption of children by same-sex couples. Cyprus first.' Stefanos Evangelidis, a legal representative and secretary for Accept LGBTI, stated that the organization filed a formal complaint with the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights and the Strovolos Municipality. The NGO argues the placement is inappropriate because the area is situated near seven schools frequently visited by children aged 7 to 18. Marios Pelekanos, head of the ELAM press office, responded to the criticism by rejecting the complaints as an attempt to silence the party's political speech. He stated that the party will not seek permission to express its views and maintains that it serves as a defender of the traditional family institution. The authorities have not yet issued an official decision regarding the complaints. The disagreement highlights ongoing tensions in Cyprus regarding policies on marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights.