THE LEADER of AKEL yesterday censured those who attack President Demetris Christofias, warning them that their only ‘gain’ was the Cyprus issue losing ground.
Speaking before the party’s 21st congress, Andros Kyprianou said: “Every chance is exploited to lay blame on the president.”
Kyprianou said there was a strong impression that this is happening simply because Christofias was the president.
“We have said it many times and we will repeat it: those who think they gain something from the full-frontal attack they launch against the president are fooling themselves; the only thing they ‘gain’ is the Cyprus question losing ground,” Kyprianou said.
“They even voice abuse at the president that is unacceptable for a European country in the 21st century, he added. However, the charges contain so many contradictions that at the end of the day they will be left exposed in the eyes of the Cypriot people, Kyprianou said. He was including certain politicians who even participate in the government, he said.
“Those opposing a federal solution should think about it seriously, before they continue making boastful declarations,” the AKEL leader said. “Where is this approach leading us?”
He said AKEL did not wish to silence anyone – it respected all views – but it could not remain quiet. “Potential abandonment of our commitments towards the international community will not be understood by anyone,” Kyprianou said.
He also suggested there was currently an attempt to revive nationalism and chauvinism.
“Some people are trying to fanaticise a section of the Cypriot people; to poison society with slogans oozing hate and fanaticism.”
“If today we allow them to rear their head again, the result would be the completion of the criminal act they started in 1974.”
Christofias walked into the international conference centre amid much fanfare, to a standing ovation and Greek music blaring in the background.
He said despite the difficulties in the talks there was no other option than to continue to believe and fight for a solution.
“It’s our minimal obligation toward the coming generations. Between what is desirable, but impossible, and what is possible, we do not choose the big empty words that led the country to destruction.
Recognising that the peace talks were at a “critical juncture,” Christofias said that under his watch the Greek Cypriot side has secured a process which “safeguards against the treacherous roads and dangers of the recent past.”
“We have secured that the process is ‘Cyprus-owned’, without any form of arbitration or artificial timetables. This is guaranteed by the UN Security Council itself,” he noted.
The congress was attended by a host of local politicians as well as foreign dignitaries, including Theodoros Pangalos, the Vice-President of the Greek government.
Christofias announced also that he would not be running for a spot on AKEL’s Central Committee – barring him from reclaiming the top job at the communist party. The candidates for party General Secretary will be named this weekend.
