Nicosia, Cyprus. Irene Charalambides has rejected claims attributed to Akel about her political actions, as tensions between the former party member and the party leadership intensify ahead of the parliamentary elections. In a public response issued on Monday, she said reports of coordinated actions to undermine the party “do not correspond to reality”.
Denial of reported coordination
Charalambides dismissed reports suggesting she was acting in coordination with former auditor-general and Alma leader Odysseas Michaelides to undermine Akel. Her response followed reporting in Phileleftheros suggesting a “covert war” involving her and Michaelides against the party leadership.
Comments on the pre-election climate
Charalambides described the pre-election period as increasingly confrontational, saying “the vulgarity has no end in this election period” and referring to what she characterised as an “organised lynching” against her. She said she would not engage in such exchanges, adding that “we do not respond to the vulgarities”.
Breakdown in relations with Akel
The dispute reflects a breakdown in relations between Charalambides and Akel following her departure from the party and subsequent collaboration with the Alma movement led by Michaelides. The disagreement has centred on political strategy and past internal decisions, including positions taken during the 2023 presidential elections.
Response to criticism and party concerns
Addressing criticism from Akel figures, including parliamentary representative Giorgos Loukaidis, Charalambides said responses to public criticism were necessary. “Attack brings defence. And that is what we did, we defended ourselves,” she said, referring to exchanges over comments about Michaelides. Akel sources have expressed concern over what they describe as efforts to weaken the party internally and create division among its members.
What do you think this dispute could mean for Akel and its prospects in the parliamentary elections?
