The far-right National Popular Front (ELAM) doubled its representation in the 56-member Cyprus parliament, increasing its seats from 4 to 8 after securing 10.9% of the vote in the May 24, 2026 elections [1, 2]. Christoforos Christoforou described ELAM as "the sole winner of Sunday’s election, with a clear victory that gives it an increased say in passing legislation" [1].
ELAM is an anti-immigrant party inspired by Greece’s defunct neo-Nazi Golden Dawn and advocates for the direct union of Cyprus with Greece while opposing federal settlement talks [1, 2].
The largest party, Disy, held steady with about 27.1%-27.2% of the vote and maintained its number of parliamentary seats [1, 2]. The left-wing AKEL party reversed a years-long decline as its vote share increased from 22.3% to between 23.8% and 23.9%, allowing it to keep its 15 seats [1, 2].
Newcomer parties focused on anti-corruption and social media influence, including Alma and Direct Democracy Cyprus led by Fidias Panayiotou, won parliamentary seats for the first time, with Direct Democracy Cyprus securing 4 seats [1, 2].
Centrist parties such as EDEK failed to pass the electoral threshold and did not enter parliament [1, 2].
Nikos Christodoulides, former Disy member and current president, reportedly expressed disappointment that parties supporting him failed to enter parliament [2].
The results set the stage for parliamentary activity with a larger ELAM presence as Cyprus grapples with political divisions over immigration and unification.
