Deputy Government Spokesman Yiannis Antoniou commented on the outcome of the parliamentary elections and the political balance taking shape, stressing that the absence from the new House of Representatives of two political parties supporting the government is a factor that should not be overlooked.
Speaking on public broadcaster CyBC and Sigma TV, Antoniou said the government fully respects the election result and will continue to seek consensus and cooperation in order to advance its policies effectively. He noted that during the previous parliamentary term, a number of significant government initiatives were approved through dialogue and convergence in parliament.
Turning to early discussion over the 2028 presidential elections, Antoniou described as arbitrary the conclusion that the president should already be “counting votes” for a second term. He said President Nikos Christodoulides has not taken any decisions regarding 2028, although he personally assessed, in comments to Sigma, that “common sense suggests he will be a candidate”.
He clarified, however, that much will depend on the choices of political parties, possible alliances and the individuals who will shape the political landscape.
Antoniou also rejected the view that the result of the Democratic Rally (DISY) could be interpreted as a message of disapproval towards the president. He said DISY never put such a dilemma to voters and argued that on major issues – including the Cyprus problem, the economy, foreign policy, security and migration – there are significant areas of convergence between the government and DISY.
At the same time, he made clear that the president did not enter into political confrontation with DISY during the parliamentary elections, noting that Christodoulides comes from the party’s political space and that Sunday’s contest was between party forces, not a personal contest between the president and any party.
Finally, Antoniou dismissed reports and complaints alleging presidential interventions in favour of specific parties or candidates, stressing that no guidance was given to DIKO, ELAM or DISY candidates.
