It seems that a much-hoped 2023 presidential elections alliance between the island’s largest opposition parties Akel-Diko is not on the cards, Philenews reported on Monday citing insiders.
And that this week’s anticipated last and crucial meeting between the two party leaders is not even going to happen, one also said.
Proof of the imminent deadlock is the speech at a memorial service on Sunday by main opposition Akel leader Stefanos Stefanou who focused on the urgent need for the divided island’s reunification.
The new President should be a keen supporter of a settlement and ready to make the necessary compromises – an indication that Akel is going its way from hardliner centre Diko.
Stefanou and Diko’s chief Nicolas Papadopoulos began sounding each other in March with both saying they agree on the general premise for the need of a change in government.
Insiders said Akel’s possible support to the independent candidacy of human rights expert Achilleas Demetriades is gaining ground within the party leadership.
Although Demetriades is running as an independent, realistically he would need backing from the established parties to stand any chance.
