The race for Mayor of Nicosia is shaping up to be a lively contest, with a new challenger entering the fray and established candidates outlining their platforms.
Restaurateur Panagiotis Mentzis, backed by the Ecologists Movement, has thrown his hat into the ring, injecting fresh energy into the campaign. The ultimate impact of his candidacy remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, the two previously declared candidates, Nikos Tornaritis and Charalambos Prountzos, are intensifying their pre-election efforts.
Tornaritis, who enjoys the support of centre-right DISY, DIKO and DIPA, will formally present his candidacy on April 20. He is expected to unveil his initial policy agenda for the capital city alongside the announcement.
His campaign headquarters on Makarios Avenue will also be inaugurated on the same day.
Prountzos, an independent candidate backed by AKEL and EDEK, has already held his first major campaign rally. He presented a six-point vision for Nicosia, emphasising sustainability, green initiatives, and improved quality of life for residents.
His plan includes ambitious targets for energy autonomy, featuring electric trams and buses, expanded charging infrastructure, and lower energy costs. Additionally, Prounzos proposes solutions for sustainable urban mobility, including improved bus services, multi-storey parking, and expanded bicycle and scooter lanes.
A key element of Prounzos’ strategy is the “NicosiaApp,” a digital platform offering citizen services, business and visitor information, enhanced neighbourhood security, and streamlined bureaucracy.
The centre-left EDEK party has chosen to endorse Prounzos for Mayor while throwing its weight behind Konstantinos Giorkadjis for president of the Nicosia District Council, as well as Stella Sourmeli for Deputy Mayor of Strovolos.
