AKEL has launched a sharp attack on the government and President Nikos Christodoulides, citing what it describes as inaction in addressing rising poverty risks in Cyprus.
In a statement issued following the Labour Day marches, the party said thousands of workers who took to the streets delivered a “resounding response” to what it called empty government promises lacking real impact.
AKEL pointed to Eurostat data for 2025, highlighting that 167,000 people in Cyprus are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, an increase of 3,000 compared to 2024. It also criticised the level of the minimum wage, noting that it stands at 55 percent of the median wage, below the European Union’s target of 60 percent.
The party placed particular emphasis on delays in transposing the EU directive on collective agreements. According to AKEL, Cyprus should have implemented the directive by November 2024 to ensure coverage for 80 percent of workers. The delay, it argued, leaves employees exposed to labour market deregulation.
Referring to the Labour Day demonstrations organised by trade union PEO, AKEL said the turnout reflected a clear message from the workforce against inequality.
“The country does not belong to the banks and the richest 1 percent who exploit its wealth,” the statement said, calling for a fair redistribution of wealth in favour of the middle class and vulnerable groups.
AKEL concluded by pledging to continue its efforts for decent wages, collective agreements and fair working hours, stressing that workers who “drive the economy” are entitled to fundamental, protected rights.