Limassol, Cyprus. Akel on Thursday said the dispute between the government and Disy over the housing crisis was like “a dog chasing its tail”, arguing that there was little policy difference between them. The party said both had governed for 13 years with the same policies and results, while housing costs continued to rise.
Akel criticises government response
Akel said President Nikos Christodoulides’ assurances on housing could not conceal what it described as a gap between government announcements and people’s daily reality.
The party said the government was accumulating announcements while people were counting salaries that were not enough, rents that remained unaffordable, and housing prospects that were moving further out of reach for thousands.
Impact on workers and young people
According to Akel, the government must recognise that the housing problem is much broader than it presents and that everyday life shows the extent of the issue.
The party said workers and young people were being forced to spend half their income on housing, while increasing numbers were leaving urban centres or staying in their parents’ homes because they could not afford to live independently.
Limassol housing costs highlighted
Akel said Limassol remained the most expensive city in Cyprus for buying and renting homes.
It said that renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between €1,300 and €1,600 per month.
Call for broader housing strategy
The party said government policies announced or implemented so far had failed to prevent the problem from developing into a housing crisis.
Akel called for what it described as a bold, socially oriented and comprehensive strategy that addresses the real causes of the crisis rather than only its consequences.
Proposals for affordable housing
Akel said it had already submitted proposals, including limiting what it called the uncontrolled purchase of real estate by third-country nationals for investment purposes.
It also called for measures to support the mass production of affordable housing through cooperation between the state, local government and the private sector, as well as a substantial strengthening of the Cyprus land development corporation.
