Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ new parliament is preparing to convene its first plenum on Thursday, but parties remain undecided over whom to support for the post of House president. Annita Demetriou, leader of Disy, is currently the only confirmed candidate.
Parties weigh options before vote
Akel is still considering whether to field its leader, Stefanos Stefanou, or back a possible candidacy by Diko leader Nikolas Papadopoulos.
Diko had expected Akel to clarify its position on Tuesday so it could decide its next move, but no decision was reached. Akel is set to meet again on Wednesday afternoon.
Diko and Disy keep channels open
The lack of a decision has left Diko without a clear course, and the party may ultimately support Annita Demetriou if Papadopoulos does not submit his own candidacy.
Sources close to Diko said that while no meetings with Akel had been scheduled, informal contacts could still take place.
Disy deputy president Efthymios Diplaros said his party was maintaining communication channels with Diko.
Elam and Alma monitor developments
The developments are also being closely watched by Elam and Alma.
Alma appears ready to support Stefanou, although sources expressed doubt over whether Irene Charalambides could be persuaded to vote for her former party.
Elam has already announced the candidacy of its leader, Christos Christou. However, the party may withdraw his candidacy and support Papadopoulos in an effort to block the election of either Annita Demetriou or an Akel-backed candidate.