election candidate — election candidate — Eighty-nine-year-old Christakis Rotsides will be making history as the oldest candidate in the upcoming parliamentary elections in Limassol, having officially registered as an independent candidate on Wednesday.
A retired musician, Rotsides has expressed a strong desire to be elected on his own merit, stating, “I want to be elected with my own strength and not with foreign support.” His candidacy brings a unique perspective to the political landscape as he draws upon nearly nine decades of life experience.
Rotsides has not shied away from discussing significant issues, particularly the Cyprus problem. He firmly believes that the matter should not be framed merely as a conflict between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, but rather as a situation of invasion and occupation.
His candidacy is notable not only for his age but also for the historical context it provides. Rotsides was born before seven of the thirteen individuals who have held the position of House president. Among those younger than him are prominent political figures such as Annita Demetriou, Adamos Adamou, and Demetris Syllouris. Even the late president Spyros Kyprianou, who served during two separate terms and held the presidency from 1977 to 1988, was born just five years prior to Rotsides.
As Cyprus approaches the elections, Rotsides’ determination and unique viewpoint may resonate with voters looking for authenticity and experience. He stands as a reminder that political engagement knows no age limit, and his willingness to enter the political arena at such an advanced age may inspire others to consider their own roles in shaping the future of their community.
