Nicosia, Cyprus. MP Irene Charalambides has indicated she is preparing to contest the May parliamentary elections, with indications pointing to a candidacy on the Alma party ticket in the Nicosia district.
Indications of Alma run
Charalambides, currently an MP for Akel, told television channel Alpha that she is “leaning in this direction” when asked about seeking another term. She added that she was accustomed to “leaping without a safety net,” a remark widely interpreted as pointing towards Alma, the movement led by former auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides, given that “Alma” is Greek for “leap.”
Contacts with parties
Informal contacts are alleged to have taken place between Charalambides and Alma, without a final decision. Sources close to the matter told the Cyprus Mail that she has also received approaches from Diko, while Volt has also apparently shown interest.
Akel term limits and talks
Charalambides is unable to stand again under Akel rules, which impose a term limit. Akel limits its MPs to two terms in parliament, with the party’s internal rules having changed to reflect this in 2023, and Charalambides has served three terms, making her ineligible to stand on the party’s ballot in May.
The party leadership had proposed continued cooperation outside parliament, including the creation of an observatory for corruption and collusion under her leadership. Despite a meeting with Akel leader Stefanos Stefanou, discussions did not progress, though Stefanou has said the party still wishes to talk.
“Cooperation with people who contributed to the party’s work is not exhausted by their participation in parliament,” Stefanou said, adding that no specific proposal is currently on the table.
What do you think Charalambides’ next political move will mean for the May parliamentary elections?