Nicosia: Ahead of the May 24 parliamentary elections, political parties continued on Sunday their campaigns, with Democratic Rally (DISY) focusing on tourism, which it described as 'the backbone of the Cypriot economy', while also issuing Mother's Day messages. The Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL), the Democratic Party (DIKO), and Democratic Alignment (DIPA) addressed issues related to social policy, the economy, and family support, while the Cyprus Greens stressed the need for 'clean and green' politics ahead of the electoral contest.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in a press release issued on Sunday, DISY said tourism requires strategic planning, resilience to crises, and continuous upgrading of the tourism product, outlining priorities including extending the tourism season to nine months, strengthening air connectivity, and supporting investment and competitiveness. DISY emphasized that citizens 'hear generalities, contradictions and promises without a comprehensive plan' from other parties, adding that 'tourism is not suitable for experiments'. The party also highlighted the achievements during the 2013-2023 period, noting that the Deputy Ministry of Tourism was established, the first National Tourism Strategy was implemented, and tourist arrivals rose significantly.
Meanwhile, AKEL Secretary General Stefanos Stefanou stated the party's commitment to the reunification and future of Cyprus, advocating for policies supporting women and motherhood. He emphasized the importance of addressing the economic pressures faced by young couples and highlighted the need for environmental protection as part of a nationwide clean-up campaign.
Elsewhere, AKEL accused DISY and DIKO of potential cooperation with ELAM, which they see as an alignment with fascism, following statements by MPs from the two parties. AKEL spokesperson Giorgos Koukoumas criticized DISY President Annita Demetriou and DIKO MP Chrysis Pantelides for their perceived openness to collaboration with ELAM.
For its part, DIKO MEP Costas Mavrides emphasized the importance of strengthening defence cooperation between Greece and Cyprus within the European framework. DIKO also reaffirmed its support for family-friendly policies, honoring Mother's Day as a recognition of mothers' roles in society.
In addition, DIPA expressed satisfaction with Fitch Ratings' decision to maintain Cyprus' economy at A- with a positive outlook, attributing this to fiscal discipline and targeted economic policies.
Meanwhile, Cyprus Greens President Stavros Papadouris called for 'clean, honest, and green' politics, describing the Movement as a credible alternative against corruption and ineffective policies. Papadouris emphasized that political ecology is a sustained effort rather than a temporary choice.