A record number of candidates is expected in the upcoming parliamentary elections compared to the 2021 vote, according to General Election Officer and Interior Ministry Director General Elikkos Elia, who also defended the use of traditional ballot boxes, stating that “the tin box ensures the secrecy of the vote.”
Speaking to Cyprus News Agency, Elia said approximately 1,195 polling stations will operate, staffed by around 6,860 personnel, including 1,185 police officers.
“We are preparing for the parliamentary elections of May 24, 2026, and I am confident they will be conducted smoothly and with full integrity, a process many countries, even developed ones, would wish to have,” he noted.
Elia said he expects a higher number of candidates than in 2021, when 651 people ran, including 160 women, expressing hope that female participation will increase further. Final figures will be known on May 6, when nominations are submitted.
He added that while 15 party lists and seven independent candidates took part in 2021, more parties are likely to participate this year. Currently, around 28 to 29 parties are registered, though not all are expected to run.
On ensuring electoral integrity, Elia stressed that party and candidate representatives remain present throughout both voting and counting processes, safeguarding transparency.
Responding to questions about the use of non-transparent ballot boxes, he said that transparent boxes could compromise voter secrecy. “We cannot place ballots in envelopes, as legislation requires us to ensure the number of ballots matches the number of voters,” he explained, adding that even partial exposure of a ballot could violate secrecy.
He also noted that the ballot boxes used are durable and secure.
Finally, Elia called on parties and candidates to maintain a respectful tone during the campaign period and present well-documented positions, emphasizing the need to strengthen democratic resilience.
Source: CNA
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