They will be held on Sunday.
A series of polls suggest reversals, with the first concerning . Democratic Alarm (DISY), AKEL and Democratic Party (DI.KO) do not collectively exceed 45% in any of the most recent public opinion surveys. At the same time, the dynamic appearance of new parties raises questions about the legislative function and the role of Cyprus in the EU.
The MEP of DIS.SY. and of the European People’s Party, Michalis Hatzipantela spoke to “Vima” about the stakes of the parliamentary elections and how the final result affects the Nicosia-Brussels relationship.
What do you think is at stake in Sunday’s election?
What is really at stake on Sunday is the stability, the seriousness and the direction the country will take in the next five years, in a period full of challenges and uncertainty, both in Cyprus and in Europe.
The Democratic Alarm, as the political force belonging to the great European family of the European People’s Party, remains firmly committed to the principles of responsibility, reform and the European perspective of the country.
My wish and expectation is that the next day we will have a Parliament that is serious and capable of taking responsible decisions, promoting reforms and adequately responding to the needs of society. Let us not be led to a fragmentation that will make it difficult to take critical decisions and strengthen political instability.
Do you see the result of the parliamentary elections somehow affecting Cyprus’ relationship with the EU?
Stability and accountability at home will allow Cyprus to have a strong and reliable voice in the EU, to claim effectively in all matters that concern it, such as the economy, energy, immigration and security.
The entire world is currently being tested by geopolitical and economic challenges. Especially a small country like Cyprus does not have the luxury of experimentation, populism and easy slogans.
In any case, we must protect our country’s European orientation and invest in people and forces that can represent the country responsibly and consistently. The choice of Sunday must be a choice of responsibility for the future of the country and for the position of Cyprus within Europe.
