Record 753 Candidates Register for Cyprus Parliament Election

A record 753 candidates from more than 15 parties and independents registered on Wednesday to compete for 56 seats in Cyprus's House of Representatives, ahead of the parliamentary election on May 24.

Registrations took place in person at six locations across the island, including established politicians from major parties and first-time contenders. The high number of participants signals potential for one of the most fragmented legislatures in the island's history, surpassing the seven parties represented in the previous parliament. Polls indicate shifts in voter support, with DIKO, DIPA, and EDEK, which back President Nikos Christodoulides, losing ground, while the ELAM party gains traction and newcomers like ALMA, led by former auditor-general Odysseas Michaelides, are projected to secure 8 to 10 percent of the vote.

Michaelides gained prominence for exposing flaws in a passports-for-cash program that granted EU citizenship to wealthy foreigners in exchange for investments. Criticized by the European Union, the scheme was dismantled in 2020 following multiple revelations. Analysts point to corruption as a dominant voter concern. "Corruption is high on voters' agenda," said...