Nicosia, Cyprus. Ecologists’ Movement leader Stavros Papadouris on Wednesday filed his candidacy for the forthcoming parliamentary elections at the top of his party’s ballot in the Nicosia district. He said the party expects a difficult election amid prevailing populism.
Papadouris outlines campaign message
Papadouris, 52, said the party would continue with what he described as a banner of 30 years of history, which he said has taught the party to act with clarity and transparency.
He called on Cypriot voters to continue the work and to stand with political forces which, he said, have for many years followed what he described as correct ideologies. He also wished success to all.
Papadouris said the Ecologists’ Movement would emerge strengthened from the election and described fellow candidates as remarkable people, saying their presence would be for the best for the country.
Oz Karahan included on Nicosia list
A notable name on the Ecologists’ Movement’s list in the Nicosia district is Oz Karahan, who is set to be the first Turkish Cypriot to stand for the Republic of Cyprus’ parliament since the outbreak of intercommunal violence in 1963.
Parliamentary composition and voting rights
The constitution initially provided for a parliament with 50 voting members, including 35 Greek Cypriots and 15 Turkish Cypriots, alongside non-voting observers from the Armenian, Latin, and Maronite communities.
After the breakdown of constitutional order and the outbreak of intercommunal violence in 1963, Turkish Cypriots were unable to return to their seats, leaving 35 voting members.
Ahead of the 1985 parliamentary elections, the number was increased to 56 Greek Cypriot members after the constitution was altered using the doctrine of necessity. The amendment provides for 24 Turkish Cypriots to be elected as well, but this has not occurred as the Cyprus problem remains unresolved.
Karahan will not stand as one of the 24 Turkish Cypriots but on the list of 56, as under the doctrine of necessity Turkish Cypriots living in territories under government control can vote and stand in presidential and parliamentary elections.
What do you think Oz Karahan’s candidacy could mean for parliamentary representation in Cyprus?
