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Cypriots head to the polls on Sunday in parliamentary elections that could shake up the country’s political scene, with many voters angry over corruption scandals, high electricity bills, and the rising cost of living.
While the president still holds most executive power in Cyprus, the makeup of parliament matters because it affects how easily laws and government policies can move forward. And this time, many traditional parties appear to be losing support.
Polls suggest newer political movements such as ALMA and Volt Cyprus could enter parliament for the first time, while far-right party ELAM is expected to gain seats and could even become the third-largest party in the House.
If that happens, it would mark a major shift away from the long-time dominance of AKEL and DISY, the two parties that have largely controlled Cypriot politics for decades.
Political analysts say many people are preparing to cast a “protest vote” against the establishment, blaming politicians for scandals such as the controversial “golden passports” program and delays to energy projects that have left Cyprus with some of the highest electricity costs in Europe.
For many ordinary Cypriots, the frustration feels personal.
People are paying more for groceries, rent and power bills, while at the same time hearing repeated promises about reforms and accountability. That growing anger appears to be helping smaller and newer parties attract voters who say they feel ignored by the traditional political system.
A record 753 candidates from more than 18 parties are running in the election, showing just how fragmented the political landscape has become.
One of the biggest newcomers is ALMA, founded by former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides, who built support by publicly challenging government spending and corruption before being removed from office in 2024.
Meanwhile, Volt Cyprus says many voters feel disconnected from politics altogether and want real change instead of more political infighting.
The election is also being viewed as the first major national test for Nikos Christodoulides halfway through his presidency — and a snapshot of how much trust Cypriots still have in the political system.
