Paphos, Cyprus. Elam removed Kyriakos Savvas from its ballot in Paphos on Wednesday, citing what it described as ongoing disciplinary offences in a decision taken unanimously by its politburo. Savvas confirmed his removal in a public statement, saying his campaign team had not been informed in advance.
Party decision and rationale
Elam said the decision followed “repeated and multiple warnings and attempts at understanding” which did not lead to “any positive response”. The party said Savvas had “chosen to follow his own personal agenda”, adding that it is “of utmost importance that our executives and candidates serve the collective interest first and foremost”.
Actions cited as breaches of discipline
Information surrounding the decision pointed to a series of actions considered to be in breach of party discipline, including Savvas’ involvement in public support efforts linked to suspended former bishop Tychikos. This included participation in organised groups advocating for Tychikos’ return, despite reported warnings from party leadership not to deviate from its line.
Further friction was also understood to have arisen from public commentary made by Savvas on social issues.
Social media post and internal concern
In a recent social media post, Savvas referred to a same-sex civil partnership reportedly held at Minthis monastery, writing that “what you see below is not in some foreign country but in our Orthodox Cyprus”, while questioning the position of the Synod and stating that the next parliament “must deal seriously with the propaganda of the LGBT!”.
The post, along with references to ecclesiastical matters, was reported to have caused internal concern within the party, particularly in light of its criticism of church authorities.
Savvas response
Savvas did not publicly address the specific reasons for his removal and declined to comment further beyond confirming the development.
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