Kostis Efstathiou denies allegations regarding his return to EDEK

On May 8, 2026, during an appearance on the Omega television program "Aixmes," EDEK president Nikos Anastasiou claimed that Kostis Efstathiou had demanded the departure of other party members as a condition for his own return to the party. Efstathiou publicly rejected these claims, labeling them false and expressing regret over the accusations. He asserted that he met with Anastasiou three times in the presence of witnesses—in Kakopetria, Lakatamia, and Larnaca—to discuss restoring the party's identity. During these meetings, Efstathiou stated he requested the cancellation of expulsions and the convening of a party congress to reorganize EDEK. He denied ever demanding that specific individuals leave the party or setting personal conditions. Furthermore, Efstathiou dismissed claims that he sought a third parliamentary term, noting he had already publicly announced he would not be a candidate again. According to Efstathiou, Anastasiou had previously promised to consider his proposals and convene a congress, which ultimately did not occur.