Businessman John Christodoulou is keeping open the possibility of running for the Presidency of the Republic in 2028. He confirmed that he is in contact with political parties but declined to say which ones. He also said he believes he can contribute to solving the Cyprus problem, and set out his views on the economy, housing and opportunities for young people.
Decision expected in early 2027
Speaking on ANT1’s “Mera Mesimeri” programme, Mr Christodoulou said he has not yet reached a final decision on the 2028 presidential elections. He stressed that standing would significantly change his personal and family life.
He explained that he is satisfied with his life as it is and is weighing whether to take a different path. “What will I gain? I won’t gain. The people will certainly gain from the ideas I have,” he said, expressing confidence that he could deliver significant projects for the benefit of Cyprus.
Mr Christodoulou placed his decision in the first quarter of 2027. He said he would first need to discuss it with his family, as the choice would substantially affect his daily life.
Contacts with political parties
Asked directly whether he is in talks with political parties, and with which, he said he is holding contacts but does not wish to discuss them at this stage.
“I am talking, but I will not discuss it now,” he said. He added that he must first decide whether to run, and would address the matter afterwards.
Position on the Cyprus problem
Mr Christodoulou made particular reference to the Cyprus problem. He said that, as a refugee himself, he finds it unthinkable that the issue remains unresolved 52 years after the Turkish invasion.
He said he wishes to return to his home, as do all those who lost their houses. He also voiced concern that younger generations do not grasp, to the same degree, the importance of the Cyprus problem and the hardships their parents faced.
Asked whether he has a specific plan for a settlement, he expressed optimism about his abilities. “I can find a solution, I think. It is my dream,” he said, adding that he would work hard towards that goal.
Asked how an agreement could be reached, he said that if he decides to run for the Presidency, he will explain his proposals to the public.
He argued that any solution must first and foremost satisfy the Cypriot people. He acknowledged, however, that some form of return to the Turkish side would be needed, without specifying what this might be.
Views on the economy
On the economy, Mr Christodoulou argued that Cyprus has significant untapped potential for growth. He cited the example of large international companies whose financial size exceeds that of the Cypriot economy.
He said a different way of thinking is needed, along with greater efforts to attract businesses and create new jobs.
“I am not a politician. I don’t think like a politician. I’m about business, I’m from the street, I’m from Kaimakli,” he said, adding that he wants clear procedures and transparency.
He also expressed concern about the financial difficulties facing citizens. He said he has personally seen cases of people struggling to secure even the basic necessities of life.
Affordable housing and young people
Mr Christodoulou focused on the housing problem. He said he wants to use his business activity to build homes at affordable prices, so that more young people can buy their first home.
He explained that the high cost of housing is an obstacle for young couples who want to marry and start a family.
He said he wants young people to be able to study, work and raise families in Cyprus, rather than being forced to seek opportunities abroad.
He also expressed the wish to see more people living abroad return to Cyprus, saying this could contribute to the country’s economic and demographic growth.
Personal motivation
Mr Christodoulou said his possible entry into politics is not linked to personal financial gain, and that he does not want to take anything from Cyprus.
He said Cyprus is where he was born and where his roots lie, which is why he wishes to contribute to its development.
He noted that over the past ten years he has been visiting Cyprus increasingly often. He said this has allowed him to see the needs and problems of society at first hand.
He also referred to his presence on social media, saying he tries to follow the messages he receives from citizens to better understand their concerns and expectations.
Despite his optimism about the prospects for change, Mr Christodoulou did not announce a formal candidacy or name the parties he is in contact with. He deferred his final decisions to the beginning of next year.
