Strovolos municipality defends legality of ELAM campaign billboard

A controversy has erupted between the political party ELAM and the NGO Accept-LGBTI Cyprus regarding a campaign billboard in Strovolos. The billboard displays the message, "No to marriage and child adoption by same-sex couples – Cyprus first." Representatives from Accept-LGBTI, including legal secretary Stefanos Evangelidis, have challenged the sign, citing its location near seven schools attended by children aged 3 to 18. The organization argues that the message targets vulnerable groups and encourages bullying. On May 7, 2026, the organization requested intervention from the Strovolos Municipality and the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights. The Strovolos Municipality issued a formal statement affirming that the billboard is legally authorized, as it meets all technical specifications and road safety regulations. Furthermore, the municipality stated that legal advice confirms the content does not violate current legislation. ELAM spokesperson Marios Pelekanos rejected the criticism, describing the attempts to remove the billboard as censorship and stating that the party will continue to express its views on the matter.