EDEK election to remain two-horse race

Former MEP for EDEK, Koullis Mavronikolas, has decided not to run for party leader, saying he could not in good conscience take part in a process he deeply disagrees with.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Mavronikolas said that in light of the accusations made by former party leader Yiannakis Omirou, the party should now strive for unity.

“Instead of that it chose to proceed with an election, a development that not only does not address the many problems we face but tries to sweep them under the rug. My character and my long-time presence and actions in EDEK forbid me from entering such a process. Therefore I will not be a candidate for party chairman,” he said.

Omirou resigned last month claiming he was constantly undermined within the party.

Mavronikolas was expected to submit his candidacy on Monday, after various reports said that he was interested in the top spot.

After party MP Nicos Nicolaides announced that he would not be running, Mavronikolas was expected to run alongside deputy chairman Marinos Sizopoulos and MP Giorgos Varnava, both of whom have already announced their candidacies.

The party’s central committee convened two weeks ago and decided to replace Omirou as soon as possible.

The election will be held on March 1.

Mavronikolas’ withdrawal saves the party from a second round of elections, as the party statute stipulates that the chairman is elected by an absolute majority.

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