Mavroyiannis says he would welcome Akel backing in 2028 presidential race

Nicosia, Cyprus. Andreas Mavroyiannis said on Tuesday he would welcome Akel’s support should he stand in the 2028 presidential election, but would enter the race only if he believed he could win.

Speaking to Politis radio, Mavroyiannis said any candidacy would be pursued under the banner of victory and change for the country.

Potential candidacy

Asked whether he wanted to be Akel’s candidate in the next presidential election, Mavroyiannis replied: “Certainly.”

He said he had maintained a strong relationship with Akel since the 2023 presidential campaign and described the support he received from party members as significant.

“The people love me, and they appreciate me greatly,” he said.

Party procedures

Mavroyiannis said he had not discussed a possible candidacy with Akel secretary-general Stefanos Stefanou or other party officials, despite recent opinion polls identifying him as the Left’s frontrunner for the upcoming elections.

He said he respected Akel’s internal procedures and did not want to interfere in the party’s decision on whom to nominate.

Asked about possible opponents, he declined to name any candidate as the strongest rival, saying the priority would be to present a campaign capable of defeating whoever entered the race.

Cyprus issue talks

On efforts to resume negotiations on the Cyprus issue, Mavroyiannis said he was not optimistic.

He accused Turkey of seeking concessions from the European Union before allowing progress, describing the approach as “clear blackmail.”