Allegations of Voter Irregularities in Lakatamia
In a recent statement, Lakatamia mayor Photoula Hadjipapa raised concerns over what she described as “massive and illegal voter movements” within her municipality. The allegations come as the region prepares for the upcoming mayoral election on June 9, where Hadjipapa is campaigning to become the mayor of the newly unified municipality, which will include Lakatamia, Tseri, and Anthoupoli.
Hadjipapa reported that a significant number of objections have been filed by Lakatamia residents. These objections pertain to individuals registering to vote in the area who allegedly have no genuine connection to Lakatamia. The mayor expressed her duty to protect the integrity of the electoral process. “As Lakatamia mayor, I feel that I have an obligation to the people I represent, the real ones and not the fake ones, to stand up against this sad development,” she stated.
The mayor warned that tolerating such practices could severely undermine the democratic foundations of the local government. She emphasized the potential repercussions, saying, “if this new page in the book of local government shows even the slightest tolerance for such dishonest practices, practices which constitute a falsification of the democratic will of our people, the blow to our republic will be enormous.”
Hadjipapa urged the citizens of Lakatamia, Tseri, and Anthoupoli to remain vigilant against any attempts to manipulate the election outcome. Moreover, she called upon authorities to ensure a fair electoral process. “I call on the competent authorities to rise to the occasion and ensure the elections are conducted smoothly,” she added.
Committed to safeguarding democratic values, Hadjipapa vowed to utilize her authority to prevent any unethical or undemocratic actions from influencing the election. “For my part, I will do everything possible within the scope of my powers to prevent such undemocratic, immoral, and unacceptable practices from happening. We do not play with democracy,” she affirmed.
The Union of Cyprus Municipalities has acknowledged being aware of the situation, as reported by the Cyprus Mail. As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on Lakatamia and its neighboring communities to see how this issue unfolds and what measures will be taken to address these allegations.
