The focus keyword, electoral system, is under scrutiny as Chief Returning Officer Elikkos Elias spoke out in defence of Anastasia Anthousi’s appeal regarding a disputed parliamentary seat.
- The focus keyword, electoral system, is under scrutiny as Chief Returning Officer Elikkos Elias spoke out in defence of Anastasia Anthousi’s appeal regarding a disputed parliamentary seat.
On Tuesday, Elias described Anthousi’s petition to the electoral court as “honest”. He assured that any ruling from the court concerning the matter would be fully implemented. Anthousi, a candidate for the Democratic Rally (Disy) in Nicosia during the May parliamentary elections, filed an objection for a recount of votes in Nikitari. This request followed a correction involving five votes that altered the second distribution of parliamentary seats, transferring one from Disy to the National Popular Front (Elam).
Elias stated, “If the electoral court orders a recount of the specific ballot box, we will obey the court and recount them.” He emphasised that should the recount confirm the previously announced results for Nikitari, the current situation would remain unchanged. Conversely, he noted that if an error is identified, the court would dictate the necessary course of action.
The objection pertains to a discrepancy at the Nikitari polling station, where five votes initially recorded for Elam were later reallocated to Edek. Anthousi garnered 7,606 votes and is now seeking a recount, the annulment of the disputed result, and her recognition as the elected candidate, should the court rule in her favour.
The elections service has confirmed that they have registered the objection and will adhere to any directives from the electoral court. Elias also pointed out that this case highlights broader issues within the electoral system, prompting calls for a comprehensive review by the House.
“We should be concerned about whether our electoral system is correct,” Elias remarked, adding the need for an examination of the second distribution process. He expressed that the current system “suffers” and described the rapid shift of a parliamentary seat between districts as “demoralising” for candidates. In his view, a seat changing provinces within minutes and shifting from one party to another, ultimately ending up with a party in Paphos with a minimal voter base, raises significant concerns.
To address these issues, Elias suggested that the electoral framework requires scrutiny to enhance fairness. Meanwhile, the final decision regarding Anthousi’s appeal lies in the hands of the electoral court.
