Statements by the General Secretary of the C.C. of AKEL S.Stefanou after the meeting with the President of the Movement of Social Democrats EDEK Marinos Sizopoulos

 

21 April 2022, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

I welcomed Marinos Sizopoulos to the offices of the Central Committee today within the framework of AKEL’s contacts in connection with the upcoming presidential elections.

It is well-known that AKEL has set the goal of putting an end to the DISY government in these presidential elections and electing a President and a government with a progressive programme to address the many and serious deadlocks that this government has caused. To put an end to the Cyprus’ defamation around the world with the unprecedented growth in corruption and entanglement/interwoven interests that is the government’s responsibility. To be able to regain our international credibility, which unfortunately is non-existent, but also to solve the numerous problems in society and the economy. To open up a new perspective for the country.

We exchanged views with M.Sizopoulos on these issues, but also on the presidential elections. We have agreed to keep in touch.

Besides, we always seek this dialogue because, apart from the presidential elections, there is a day after with its own problems. It is well known that alliances are necessary both at the level of Parliament and society that should aim at addressing these problems.

AKEL has a history of forging cooperation with EDEK. We can build on this cooperation and conduct this dialogue based on this history, together with common concerns and common concerns that we share on a number of issues. I would like to thank Marinos for the meeting today and dialogue we had. As I have said, we will continue this dialogue.

QUESTION: There are constant press reports that the former Chief Negotiator (at the talks on the Cyprus problem) Mr. Mavroyiannis is high on AKEL’s shortlist for a presidential candidate. I would like your opinion on whether he is indeed a personality who can meet the Party’s criteria and go through the Party’s procedures for the final judgement and decision to be taken.

SS: As always, I will refrain from commenting on anything to do with names. You know only too well that AKEL has its own internal-party procedures and is in the midst of those procedures. It will progress with these procedures which are at an advanced stage.

For that reason, I will not comment on this particular name, just as I have not commented on any other names which I have been asked. I believe we will be able to say more soon.