The National Popular Front (ELAM) will join the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, party leader, Christos Christou said Sunday.
The Cypriot far-right party secured a seat in the European Parliament for the first time, after acquiring around 11% of the vote.
“Today, the citizens have spoken and sent their messages. We would like to thank the people who, with their votes, elected an ELAM MEP and local council candidates in all municipal districts.”
“It is essential to emphasise that we have already chosen an alliance in the EU, and we will join the group of European Conservatives and Reformists, which seems to be politically upgraded in the EU.”
“ELAM’s foremost priorities in the EU,” he said, “are the ongoing Cyprus problem and immigration.”
Looking ahead, Christou stated that “ELAM will refocus on the issues affecting Cypriot society: the cost of living crisis, immigration, and the Cyprus problem. From tomorrow, we will once again draw attention to these matters, and with the strength and trust bestowed upon us by the people, we will strive to provide solutions.”
He added, “ELAM has been declared the third political force in the country, and this certainly satisfies us.”
Commenting on the election of independent candidate Fidias Panayiotou, Christou noted that “his election reflects the disappointment of a large portion of the public with the traditional parties. We offer our congratulations to Fidias Panayiotou, whose victory sends various messages that we, as a party, will analyse subsequently.”
“I believe that democracy has spoken, and the people have sent their messages. From here on, the political leadership must analyse these messages. Having followed discussions and statements today, I observe that self-criticism is still lacking, and we tend to shift blame elsewhere.”
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