Society does not need lessons in social sensitivity from those who, when they governed, implemented policies that contributed to increased poverty, a surge in unemployment, and the creation of social grocery stores, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis said in response to AKEL.
In a written statement on Saturday, the spokesperson presented figures and economic data comparing the state of the economy in 2013 and today, stating that “society cannot forget, because the consequences of [AKEL’s] destructive policies still haunt the country.”
In a lengthy response, Mr. Letymbiotis said that AKEL has no right to selective memory, noting that “13 years later, we are still paying the price for their reckless policies.”
Responding to AKEL’s reference to 167,000 citizens being at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2025, the spokesperson said AKEL fails to mention that in 2025 the percentage stood at 17.1%, whereas during its time in government it increased from 23.3% in 2008 to 27.8% in 2013.
Citing data, Mr. Letymbiotis said that while AKEL isolates a single figure, the overall picture shows that the current government is implementing policies that genuinely strengthen citizens’ incomes.
He also referred to the minimum wage, noting a clear increase from €940 in 2023 (after the first six months of employment), to €1,000 in 2024, and to €1,088 from January 1, 2026—an increase of €148 per month, approximately 15.7% over three years.
The spokesperson added that average monthly earnings increased by 4.9%, while median earnings rose by 4.6% under conditions of nearly zero inflation.
He also mentioned that the tax-free income threshold is increasing from €19,500 to €22,000, benefiting around 200,000 workers with higher disposable income.
The cost-of-living allowance (COLA), he noted, increased from 50% to 66.7%, and with the November 2025 agreement, a gradual return to 100% is expected within 18 months. Meanwhile, basic, minimum, and social pensions increased cumulatively by about 10% during 2023–2025.
“The goal is a long-term sustainable system, with more adequate pensions—especially for low-income pensioners—and fairness between generations. Social policy is not limited to supporting the present; it must also ensure dignity for the future,” he said.
Mr. Letymbiotis also stated that society today sees a government that increases incomes, strengthens employment, supports pensioners, and turns growth into tangible social outcomes.
“Social sensitivity is not measured in statements. It is measured in wages, pensions, tax relief, and real disposable income. That is where we are all judged. And there, the data is undeniable and speaks louder than any slogan,” he concluded.
Also read: Two new cases of foot-and-mouth disease in sheep and goat farms in Athienou
