Candidacy Submissions Coincide with EU Parliament’s Closing Session
As the political landscape in Cyprus heats up, Cypriot MEP candidates are preparing to submit their candidacies on Wednesday. This move has sparked controversy due to the timing set by the interior ministry, which coincides with the closing session of the EU parliament. Critics, including outgoing MEP Demetris Papadakis, have voiced concerns that this scheduling conflict prevents Cypriot representatives from attending significant discussions in Strasbourg.
At the heart of the debate is the EU Council’s conclusions on pivotal issues such as the Cyprus problem and EU-Turkey relations. With EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen addressing these matters, the absence of Cypriot MEPs could be seen as a missed opportunity for advocacy and representation.
The Cyprus Mail has reported unease over the potential rise of far-right factions within the EU parliament. According to recent polls, such as the one published by Simerini, there is a notable shift in voter sentiment, with far-right Elam gaining traction. Political analyst Christophoros Christophorou remarked on the current political climate’s apparent favor towards Elam.
Election officer Menelaos Vasiliou has outlined the schedule for candidacy submissions, with parties like the Green party and Akel among the first to submit. The fee for each candidacy stands at €1,000. Amidst these proceedings, Cyprus will also commemorate 20 years since the country’s green light to join the EU in 2004. Former foreign minister George Iacovou is slated to speak at a special ceremony in parliament, honoring this milestone.
The 2004 enlargement remains a historic moment for the EU, welcoming ten new member states, including Cyprus. As the island nation gears up for another electoral cycle, the intertwining of domestic politics and European affairs continues to shape its political narrative.
