Businessman John Christodoulou has not ruled out standing for President of the Republic in 2028, and says he will make his final decision in January or February 2027. Speaking on Sigma’s Mesimeri kai Kati programme, he also confirmed that he is friends with, and in contact with, MEP Fidias Panayiotou.
Timeline for a final decision
Mr Christodoulou said he does not consider himself a politician, noting that he neither speaks nor thinks like one. He acknowledged, however, that a possible candidacy could create problems for him and significantly change his daily life.
“It is something I need to look at,” he said, describing it as a difficult personal decision, as he is currently satisfied with the life he has built.
Position on the political parties
Asked about his relations with political parties, Mr Christodoulou said: “My head is with DISY, but my heart is with AKEL.” He referred to the Democratic Rally (DISY) and the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL). He added that there would be time to discuss his political positions in greater detail.
Views on the Cyprus problem
Mr Christodoulou placed particular emphasis on the Cyprus problem. He argued that the country has lost valuable time and needs to speed up decision-making.
“I want one Cyprus, it is my dream,” he said, stressing that a solution must be found that guarantees the security and future of the country.
Asked why he believes he could contribute to a solution, he cited his personal experience as a refugee and the losses suffered by his family. “Perhaps because I have suffered, I was a refugee,” he said, explaining that his parents and grandparents lost their land and faced financial hardship.
He said he still feels the pain of what happened, and that efforts must be made to bring Turkey back to negotiations. “We must bring Turkey back to the table to discuss and finally solve the Cyprus problem,” he said.
The businessman said he could put his experience in business and negotiations to use for the benefit of the country.
Relationship with Fidias Panayiotou
Asked about his relationship with Mr Panayiotou, Mr Christodoulou confirmed that the two are on friendly terms and in communication. “We are friends and we talk,” he said, adding that he also speaks with figures from other political parties.
In his view, despite differing political approaches, there is common ground between political forces, since all want what is best for Cyprus. He argued that political confrontation hinders progress, and stressed the need for cooperation and a shared direction in tackling the country’s problems.
Security, young people and the economy
Beyond the Cyprus problem, Mr Christodoulou spoke about security, support for young people and the need to strengthen financially vulnerable citizens.
He expressed disappointment with the situation in Cyprus, saying the country is not making full use of its potential. He said he left Cyprus at the age of nine and went on to do business in other countries, where he saw significant change and development. Comparing their progress with the situation on the island, he asked why similar progress could not be achieved in Cyprus.
“Cyprus has great opportunities. We have the key. We must open the door,” he said.
He repeated that he is not a politician, and also remarked with humour on the difficulties he has with the Greek language.
