Former Auditor General Odysseas Michaelides officially launched the new “Alma” political movement on Monday, presenting a reform agenda aimed at fundamentally restructuring Cyprus by 2033.
With the slogan “Citizens for Cyprus,” Michaelides and 33 co-signatories of the movement’s founding declaration called for a “different Cyprus” focused on dignity, accountability, reform and development.
“The power for change is in the hands of citizens. We call on them to join us,” the declaration stated.
Michaelides announced that registration procedures for the movement will begin tomorrow, with plans to transition from theory to practice by September and participate in the 2026 parliamentary elections and 2028 presidential elections.
“Our central aim is the radical restructuring of the country to create an economically prosperous, just and dignified society. Cyprus needs a restart now,” the declaration read, describing the existing political system as “an obstacle to the country’s progress.”
The movement advocates for a federal solution to the Cyprus problem based on UN resolutions, provided it ensures viability, functionality, compliance with EU law, territorial integrity, and respect for human rights without external intervention rights.
“The open wound of the Cyprus problem is not an excuse for inaction domestically,” the declaration stated, setting 2033 as a target for implementing structural governance changes.
The movement’s core values include dignity through fair wealth distribution, accountability through institutional reforms, comprehensive modernisation across all sectors, and sustainable development balancing economic growth with social justice and environmental protection.
“This Cyprus is achievable and it’s in our hands,” the declaration concluded, inviting citizens to join the movement’s formal establishment in autumn 2025.
The announcement took place at noon at the movement’s headquarters located at the intersection of Prodromou 26 and Kolokotroni streets.
The launch comes after months of speculation about Michaelides’ political ambitions following the conclusion of his term as the country’s Auditor General.
Michaelides was dismissed from his post as Auditor General in September 2024 by the Supreme Court over inappropriate conduct. The Court cited overstepping of authority and undermining the rule of law. Michaelides criticised the ruling as a “dark day for Cyprus,” alleging political motives behind his dismissal.
Following his dismissal, Michaelides joined the European University of Cyprus as an adjunct professor.
An October 2024 opinion poll indicated that a hypothetical new party led by Michaelides would secure second place in the next legislative election, receiving 21% of the vote.
Read more:
