Odysseas Michaelides, the former Auditor General, has indicated he is increasingly likely to announce the formation of a new political party to contest the upcoming parliamentary elections, with himself at the head of its list of candidates.
In comments made on Politis radio yesterday, Michaelides confirmed a report from Phileleftheros on March 1, which suggested his potential entry into the parliamentary race. He stated that announcements would be made in May regarding the possible establishment of a political entity.
“We will tell you in May, we will tell the public in May whether we will found a party, which, as time passes, I must say is becoming an increasingly likely scenario,” Michaelides said. “Certainly, in May we will announce something. That is, even if it is not the creation of a political party – as I said, this is now the most likely outcome – we will make some kind of movement announcement.”
Michaelides and his team are currently evaluating available data, including both public and unpublished opinion polls. The results of these surveys and ongoing research will significantly influence the final decisions of the former Auditor General and his associates.
Sources suggest that current indications favour the creation of a party with good prospects in the parliamentary elections. The primary objective would be to secure a percentage of votes that provides the party with momentum, ensuring a strong parliamentary group capable of playing a decisive role in the legislature, and establishing a foundation for a future presidential election campaign, considered the ultimate goal.
This is interpreted as aiming for a double-digit, or close to double-digit, percentage of the vote, potentially positioning the new party to enter parliament with a significant number of deputies and contend for the fourth-largest party position. More optimistic estimates suggest a support level well above 10%.
The political landscape surrounding Michaelides is beginning to clarify. His recent statements and information from his inner circle suggest that he has made his decisions and will participate in the parliamentary elections. He appears determined to lead his party’s list and, if elected, to serve as a Member of Parliament. His remarks also indicate that he does not believe potential political wear and tear as an MP should deter him from entering the electoral contest and testing himself as a legislator if elected. “If you want to offer something, it means you have to enter the fray. It’s not a matter of attrition. If we judge that the creation of a party will indeed offer citizens something they need, we will do it. Whether we get worn out or not is not the criterion,” he stated in his radio interview.
Michaelides also mentioned that he is in discussions with political figures and current Members of Parliament. However, he clarified that any inclusion of sitting MPs on his party’s list would only occur after they had resigned from their existing parties.
Support for bi-communal, bi-zonal federation on Cyprus Issue
Michaelides’ radio comments yesterday also served as an initial unveiling of his political positions, which will be reflected in his party or the movement he is expected to announce in May. Asked to comment on developments regarding the Cyprus issue, the former Auditor General clearly stated his support for the agreed framework of negotiations, which is a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation. He emphasised that any solution reached must safeguard the European acquis and satisfy the security concerns of the citizens.
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