Former Cyprus Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides represents a substantial challenge to the island’s existing political establishment, according to polling data released Thursday showing seven in ten Cypriots hold a positive view of him.
The survey, conducted by strategic communications firm Redwolf in collaboration with Prime Market Research & Consulting Ltd, indicates that a hypothetical political party led by Michaelides would enter parliament as the fourth-largest party if elections were held this Sunday.
President Nikos Christodoulides continues to face significant challenges with his popularity standing at just 24%, considerably below Michaelides (59%) and House of Representatives President Annita Demetriou (36%), according to the polling data.
The survey also reveals a marked decline in public confidence in the Audit Office following Michaelides’ removal from his position, with trust falling from 46% to 30%, dropping it from first to third place among public institutions.
In the hypothetical electoral scenario, the poll places the Democratic Rally (DISY) in first position with 16%, followed by left-wing AKEL at 13%, far-right ELAM at 10%, and Michaelides’ currently non-existent party at 7%.
The Democratic Party (DIKO) would secure 6%, while both the Greens and Volt would receive 3%, with the Social Democratic Movement (EDEK) at 2% and the Democratic Alignment (DEPA) at 1%.
When calculated based on valid votes, DISY would receive 20%, AKEL 16%, ELAM 13%, and Michaelides’ party 9%, according to the poll.
The survey identifies rising costs of living as the most pressing concern for Cypriot citizens, with 48% of respondents citing it as their primary issue – a significant increase from 38% last year.
Economic concerns (18%), migration (15%), and crime (7%) follow as key issues facing the population.
Public satisfaction with the economy remains low, with 73% of citizens expressing dissatisfaction with Cyprus’ economic performance. Only 25% indicated some level of satisfaction with current economic conditions.
Among government ministers, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou (46%) and Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos (44%) recorded the highest popularity ratings, while Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis (18%) and Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades (20%) received the lowest public approval.
The poll, based on 1,186 interviews conducted nationwide between March 10-21, 2025, has a margin of error of ±3%.
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