AKEL on the 90th anniversary since the foundation of the Communist Party of Cyprus-AKEL
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 15th August 2016, Nicosia
Today marks the 90 years since the foundation of the Communist Party of Cyprus CPC – AKEL. On 15th August 1926, the day of Assumption so as not to draw the attention of the British colonialists, around twenty pioneering Communists, held in a small house in Limassol the Founding Congress of the Communist Party of Cyprus.
Inspired by the messages and visions of the 1917 October Revolution and based on communist cells that operated in Cyprus since the early 1920’s, the founders of the Communist Party of Cyprus laid the foundations which have proved to be very strong, given that for ninety years now the Party continues uninterruptedly its struggles and services to the people.
In its 90-year history, the CPC-AKEL gave shape to the visions and aspirations of the first communists. The struggles and sacrifices of the CPC-AKEL left their indelible mark on every political, social and labour gain in our country. This path was characterized by persecution, repression, and even political assassinations against the CPC-AKEL. The Party twice found itself outlawed and in underground, while it became the target of local and foreign interests.
Despite the difficulties and obstacles, AKEL, the successor of CPC, was a leading force in the struggles of our people and evolved into a mass, assertive and responsible Communist Party. A Party whose great contribution to Cyprus, workers and our people is universally acknowledged. AKEL for decades has established itself as a big serious political and social force which is playing a leading role in determining the future of our country and working people’s perspective.
On the occasion of today’s anniversary, AKEL pays tribute and homage to the thousands of people’s fighters and militants who through their sacrifices, struggles and toil created better living conditions for the common people and built the great bastion of AKEL and the Peoples Movement of the Left.
Finally, we expresses our gratitude to the Cypriot people for the practical support, affection and trust with which it surrounds us. The people are the life and soul of AKEL and AKEL exists to serve the people. We renew our commitment to continue the struggle for the reunification of our country, for social justice and prosperity.
