Former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides has publicly rejected involvement with political parties, responding to an open invitation from AKEL Secretary-General Stefanos Stefanou. The invitation, discussed in a recent interview with Phileleftheros, suggested potential cooperation with Michaelides under AKEL’s newly formed “Social Alliance.”
In a post on his personal account on the platform X, Michaelides reflected on his family’s historical ties to the left-wing movement. “Stefanos’s invitation in today’s Phileleftheros reminded me that both my grandfathers were active members of the leftist movement. My maternal grandfather, Dr Odysseas Ellinopoulos, was a prominent figure of the left and the first elected Mayor of Lapithos,” he wrote.
However, Michaelides reiterated his intent to remain independent of party politics, emphasising his commitment to combating corruption and modernising institutions through direct engagement with civil society. “As I explained during the Greens’ event on 9 December 2024, I believe the fight against corruption and the strengthening of the rule of law should be rooted in civil society, not mediated through political parties. My intention is to stay distanced from all parties, even the Greens, who have been consistent supporters of mine over the years,” he stated.
Stefanou, responding to questions on Michaelides’ potential political engagement, said, “Anyone who wishes to enter politics is free to do so. Let them present their proposals, and the people will judge them at the polls. As a left-wing party, we believe we can adequately represent the broader progressive space, even beyond the Left, with a progressive political agenda. This is why we have upgraded the New Forces initiative with the establishment of the Social Alliance. That is where our efforts will be focused.”
