AKEL on the 76th anniversary of the Party’s foundation
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 13th April 2017, Nicosia
On 14th April 1941 in the village of Skarinou the assembly to establish AKEL was held which emerged on the political scene of Cyprus. The Party took the baton of national, political and social struggles from the Communist Party of Cyprus.
In its 90 year course of struggles, first as the Communist Party of Cyprus and then as AKEL, the party of the Left of Cyprus put its mark with its struggles, services and sacrifices on the history of the country and established itself in the hearts and minds of the Cypriot people, especially the working people.
AKEL, since its founding assembly at the beginning of the Second World War, identified itself as “democratic, anti-fascist, anti-Hitler” and in the decades that were to follow it established itself as a leading force in the anti-colonial struggle, subsequently as the main force in the struggle to complete independence, but also in the struggles for the defence of democracy and legality in the country. At the same time, AKEL emerged as a leading force in the building of a modern state that should provide prosperity and progress to its citizens. The struggles for labour rights and social progress, but also the consequent creation of a welfare state, bear the indelible stamp of AKEL.
With all that it has contributed to the country and people as a legacy in today’s conditions, AKEL remains the responsible and patriotic political force that projects a perspective in the struggle for liberation from the occupation and for the reunification of Cyprus and our people. AKEL is a force that continues to enhance the hope for the liberation and reunification of our country, where Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins will build their lives in conditions of lasting peace and security.
Looking to the future, AKEL is aspiring to become even more capable and effective in the political, class and social struggles it is waging, always in service of the people of Cyprus.
On the occasion of the anniversary of its foundation, AKEL renews its pledge to the people of Cyprus that it will never lower the banner of struggle for the liberation of our country and for social justice and prosperity.
Faithful to the legacy of nine decades of life, struggles and sacrifices, AKEL will remain the consistent, responsible and militant force defending the rights of working people, our people and Cyprus.
