According to reports from the Philelefthero, there is already talk behind the scenes about whether the previously planned election date, Sunday, May 24, 2026, should be postponed. The reason for this is two major events taking place at the same time in the Greek capital: the EuroLeague Final Four (May 22-24) and the Iron Maiden concert at the Olympic Stadium on May 23. Many Cypriots have already booked flights and hotels for this purpose – which, according to politicians, could lead to a noticeably lower voter turnout, especially among younger voters.

Constitutional and organizational hurdles

However, a change of date is complicated. According to the constitution, parliamentary elections must take place 30 to 40 days after the dissolution of parliament. Parliament itself determines when it dissolves; the government then determines the exact election date.

According to talks between the Ministry of the Interior, the parliamentary administration and party representatives, April 23, 2026 is considered the most likely day for the dissolution of parliament. This is also due to the Easter calendar: During Holy Week and the week after Easter (Easter Sunday is April 12), the parliament remains closed. The last meeting is therefore scheduled for Thursday, April 23.

May 24 was originally chosen because the following Sunday (May 31) coincides with the holiday Kataklysmos – the traditional flood festival – which could further reduce voter turnout.

Hardly any room for bringing forward

An alternative to May 17 is hardly feasible: The gap between the dissolution and the election date would be too short. An even earlier election would require parliament to be dissolved before Easter – a scenario that is considered very unlikely. In addition, the deadline for updating the voter lists, which close on April 2, would be too short.

Choices abroad

However, there is a solution for citizens who want to spend the weekend in Athens. Between January and 2 April 2026, they can apply to the electoral authority to cast their vote at one of the polling stations in Athens. A similar regulation was already used in the 2024 European elections, when many Cypriots were in Athens for a Coldplay concert and voted there.

Conclusion: Change rather unlikely

Currently, the topic remains under discussion, but most parties reject an official postponement. It is feared that such a step would set a precedent – in the future, the election date would have to be discussed anew at every major event.








Author: Frixos Dalitis
Source: in-cyprus.philenews.com