Voters in Cyprus will be able to use a vote system at the forthcoming parliamentary elections, presenting a virtual identity card through the government’s “digital citizen” mobile application when casting their ballot.
Digital ID at polling stations
Chief Returning Officer Elikkos Elia said the system will operate across all polling stations during the elections, allowing voters to use the mobile application as valid proof of identity.
He explained that authorities have developed a control mechanism designed to prevent fraudulent use of the application, ensuring the integrity of the vote process.
The system forms part of broader efforts to modernise election procedures while maintaining strict security standards.
“Where do I vote” application
Alongside the identity option, voters will also be able to use a separate mobile application titled “where do I vote” to locate their designated polling station.
To access the service, users must enter their identity card number and date of birth. Elia said the application should be available to the public on Monday or Tuesday.
Election timeline and results
Elia also provided a timeline for the parliamentary elections scheduled for May 24. He said preliminary results showing how many MPs each party will secure are expected within two to three hours after polling stations close.
The full list of all 56 elected MPs is expected to be known by 1am or 2am on May 25.
Ballot printing and election logistics
He confirmed that ballot paper printing is expected to be completed by Wednesday, adding that no issues are anticipated despite the fact that most ballots will be double-sided.
Only ballots in the Larnaca district and those for the Maronite Cypriot non-voting representative will differ in format. In all other districts, candidate and party lists will appear on both sides of the ballot paper.
Parliamentary structure
The Republic of Cyprus will elect 56 MPs in the upcoming elections, with seats distributed across districts as follows: 19 in Nicosia, 12 in Limassol, 11 in Famagusta, six in Larnaca, five in Paphos, and three in Kyrenia.
The Paphos district gained one additional seat due to population growth, taken from Nicosia.
Cyprus’ parliamentary structure originally provided for 50 MPs, including Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot representation, alongside non-voting seats for Armenian, Latin, and Maronite communities. However, following the events of 1963 and constitutional changes under the doctrine of necessity, the current system now consists of 56 Greek Cypriot MPs.
The upcoming election will take place on May 24.
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