The Minister of Justice must take a stand on the press report regarding an ELAM candidate’s pre-election campaign at the Fire-fighting Academy

 

9 April 2026, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

The Minister of Justice and the leadership of the Fire Department must investigate and comment on today’s revelation in the newspaper “Haravgi” regarding the visit of a far-right ELAM parliamentary candidate to the Fire Academy. As reported, new recruits to the Fire Department were asked to attend a speech by the ELAM candidate, who reportedly engaged in racist rhetoric

Given that the ELAM candidate previously served as an officer in the Fire Service, questions arise as to whether she exploited her connections with the Service for pre-election purposes. Questions also arise as to whether institutional procedures were followed regarding the ELAM candidate’s presence at the site and whether candidates from other political parties have received or will receive the same treatment. Finally, the Ministry and the Police leadership must clarify whether rhetoric that constitutes a criminal offense under state law can be tolerated within the security forces.

Since the Minister of Justice chooses not to address AKEL’s complaints regarding what is taking place within the security forces, we declare that hiding from the issue absolves no one of their responsibilities.