Elderly voters in Kedara are keeping their election tradition alive, participating in the parliamentary elections with notable enthusiasm. Polling stations across the Paphos district opened early on Sunday, seeing a steady flow of voters, particularly from rural communities where older residents showed remarkable turnout.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Elderly voters: Community Engagement at the Polling Station
Kedara, one of Cyprus’s smallest polling stations, is home to just 66 registered voters. On election day, residents gathered at the community hall, where the ballot box was positioned. This small community has seen a significant demographic shift over the years, with many young people leaving for urban areas, leaving behind a population largely comprised of pensioners.
A Legacy of Resilience
Grigoris Ioannou, the village leader at 75, reflected on the challenges facing Kedara, noting that the community has been greatly impacted by migration. He stated, “The youngest permanent resident is 67 years old while the oldest is 93.” This stark reality highlights the commitment of the elderly to remain in their hometown, even as the village’s vibrancy has diminished.
Ioannou reminisced about the village’s past, recalling a time when Kedara had a thriving school with 120 students and a team of three teachers, as well as regular bus services connecting the village to larger cities like Limassol and Paphos. He expressed a strong desire to support rural life and preserve the essence of Kedara, stating, “I would never leave the community where I was born.” His dedication extends to welcoming Kedara’s inclusion in a state heating allowance scheme aimed at Troodos communities.
Memories and Aspirations
As residents cast their votes, many shared their memories of coexistence with Turkish Cypriots prior to 1974. The sentiments of unity and hope for future reconciliation were echoed among the older voters, who reminisced about the close relationships that existed in the past.
Among those participating in the elections was 91-year-old Louis Markantonis, a retired firefighter who proudly claimed, “I have never missed an election in my life.” Markantonis reflected on the harmonious times when Greek and Turkish Cypriots lived together as friends. He expressed a longing for that spirit to return, stating, “Local communities once coexisted peacefully despite later tensions.” His unwavering commitment to voting serves as a testament to the value he places on civic duty.
Personal Stories of Dedication
Other elderly voters also expressed their determination to engage in the electoral process. A 92-year-old from Kelokedara described voting as a matter of principle, saying it was “non-negotiable.” Another resident proudly mentioned she had cast her vote in every election “since the time of Makarios.” Such statements illustrate a profound sense of responsibility among the elderly population, who view participation in elections as a vital part of their identity.
Support and Assistance for Voters
Throughout the day, polling stations in Paphos continued to see elderly voters arriving, often with the support of family members. Many were seen walking with canes, highlighting the physical challenges that some face in making their way to the polls. This community support underscores the strong family ties that prevail in rural areas and the importance of collective participation in democracy.
The Significance of Election Day
The active involvement of elderly residents in Kedara during this election is a vital reminder of the importance of civic engagement, especially in communities where demographic changes pose significant challenges. As they cast their votes, these senior citizens not only honour tradition but also assert their role in shaping the future of their community.
As the day progressed, the steady stream of voters at polling stations across Paphos showcased the resilience of rural communities and their commitment to maintaining their electoral traditions. In Kedara, the elderly voters are not just participating in elections; they are preserving the heritage and spirit of a village that has weathered many storms.
