Cypriot businessman and philanthropist John Christodoulou is considering running for president of Cyprus in 2028, but has stressed that he has not yet made a final decision. He plans to announce his intentions in early 2027.
In a statement titled “Out of Love for Cyprus”, Christodoulou said he had received questions about a possible candidacy in recent months. He added that several individuals, including representatives of more than one political party, had urged him to consider the prospect seriously.
He said his thoughts about entering politics stemmed from his love for Cyprus and concern about the challenges facing the country, from the Cyprus problem to the rising cost of living and public safety.
Cyprus problem and cost of living among his concerns
Christodoulou pointed to the unresolved Cyprus problem, noting that 52 years after the Turkish invasion, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots still cannot return to homes they were forced to leave.
He also criticised the continued division of the island, referring to the mentality of “them over there and us over here”.
The businessman highlighted the financial pressures facing households, arguing that living costs continue to rise while wages struggle to keep pace. Through his charitable foundation, he said, he had witnessed these difficulties over the past decade.
Christodoulou referred to families unable to afford to fill their refrigerators, people sleeping on the streets and residents afraid to walk in certain neighbourhoods because of violence. He specifically mentioned Kaimakli, where he said his own area was also affected.
He said he wanted Cyprus to become a country where nobody goes hungry, nobody is left homeless and nobody fears walking home at night.
“We must put our country first”
Christodoulou emphasised that he does not consider himself a politician and had never planned to pursue a political career.
However, he said he could not accept the current situation and criticised political decisions that, in his view, are driven by the pursuit of votes in future elections.
“We must put our country first,” he said, explaining why he was considering a presidential candidacy.
He added that he believed he could make a meaningful contribution to Cyprus, particularly in the areas of security, the economy and social welfare.
Final decision expected in early 2027
Despite considering a presidential bid, Christodoulou said he was weighing the potential impact on his family and lifestyle.
He described himself as content with his life as it stands and acknowledged that choosing a different path would not be an easy decision.
He said he would reflect carefully on the matter and seek the views of people whose judgement he trusts before announcing his final decision in early 2027.
Regardless of whether he enters the presidential race, Christodoulou said he believes Cyprus deserves better and pledged to continue contributing towards that goal.
Also read: Cyprus talks trilateral meeting set for 9 November
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