MEP and Direct Democracy president Fidias Panayiotou has responded to criticism from the Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights over a video he posted on social media, insisting that he neither manipulated nor “instrumentalised” minors.
In a video posted on X, Panayiotou addressed an incident filmed at a sports venue, where a group of children could be heard chanting slogans about the cost of electricity.
He claimed that following the Commissioner's statement, a “coordinated attack” was launched against him through media reports and comments accusing him of influencing or manipulating children.
Panayiotou said he was at a sports venue playing futsal with relatives and friends when children who had finished their training approached him and asked to take photographs and create content for social media.
According to the Direct Democracy president, the video in question was made without him telling the children what to say or how to express themselves.
He claimed that the children themselves raised the issue of high electricity prices, which he said they were aware of through their families.
Panayiotou said he subsequently asked the children whether they knew about the planned protest he is organising over electricity costs.
He stressed that he believes it is important not to instrumentalise minors, while arguing that children should also have the right to express themselves freely and voice their opinions.
Claims of a ‘coordinated attack’
Panayiotou linked the criticism directed at him to his campaign and planned demonstrations over electricity prices.
He expressed the view that some are trying to undermine the momentum of the initiative and influence public participation in the protest.
His comments follow criticism from Children's Commissioner Elena Perikleous, who raised concerns over the way children were involved in the campaign.
Panayiotou concluded by renewing his call for citizens to participate in the planned gathering outside the Presidential Palace, stressing that his campaign over electricity prices will continue.
Με κατηγορούν ότι χειραγωγώ τα παιδιά https://t.co/QpQPaROIKc
— Fidias Cyprus (@FidiasCyprus) October 6, 2026
