Claims European Parliament owes him money
Fidias Panayiotou said the European Parliament owes him €15,000, adding that he is using his own money to support his work as an MEP.
Speaking on the programme “Horis Peristrofes”, he rejected allegations under examination by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding potential misuse of funds.
“Not only am I not misusing money, the European Parliament owes me €15,000. I am even paying out of my own pocket to support my work as an MEP,” he said.
Push for direct democracy model
Panayiotou also focused on citizen participation and the concept of direct democracy, defending the structure of his movement.
He said the party operates with flexibility to avoid bureaucracy and enable quick decision-making.
“We imagine the party like a solar system… there is the sun and the team appointed by the president, and they revolve around it,” he said.
He stressed that ideology is rooted in allowing citizens to decide on key issues, suggesting that even major decisions could be put to public vote.
“The ideology is to do what the people decide on everything. For example, during Covid we would ask the people, not scientists,” he said.
Addressing criticism and candidate concerns
Responding to criticism over the lack of a formal structure, he insisted that procedures are in place and that trust in his team is essential.
He also addressed allegations concerning individuals linked to his movement, saying it is wrong to target people for past mistakes.
“We give second chances… we have requested clean criminal records and procedures are ongoing. Some may ultimately not be our candidates,” he noted.
Influencer role and political approach
Asked whether he is an influencer or a politician, Panayiotou said the two roles overlap.
“The influencer is underestimated… it is the job of a politician to influence society,” he said.
He rejected claims that he focuses on view counts, stressing transparency and public engagement.
“I reached 2.5 billion views for the most boring thing, the European Parliament,” he added.
Controversial appearances and apology
Referring to his appearances wearing a clown nose and helmet, he said the aim was to highlight public disillusionment with politics.
“I believe the political system, in the eyes of the public, is the clown,” he said.
He also acknowledged a controversial statement about people with disabilities, admitting it was a mistake.
“It is the first time a politician says sorry. I am not perfect,” he said.
Economic proposals outlined
Panayiotou presented a number of economic proposals, including raising pensions to €1,080, in line with the minimum wage.
He also suggested financial support for families, proposing payments of €5,000 for a first child, €10,000 for a second, €15,000 for a third and €20,000 for a fourth.
On electricity prices, he described the situation as “a huge scandal” and said costs must be reduced.
Future political plans
Asked whether he would remain in the European Parliament or move to Cyprus’ House of Representatives if elected, he said the decision would depend on election results.
“If we are the first party, I will seriously consider it. We are not aiming for first place, but it is a scenario. We have a 10% chance,” he said.
He concluded by describing himself as an agent of change seeking to reform the system from within.
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