redistribution — Parliament voted unanimously to approve legislation redistributing parliamentary seats, giving Paphos a fifth seat while reducing Nicosia’s representation from 20 to 19 MPs. The changes will take effect in the 2026 parliamentary elections.
- Onoufrios Koulla proposed that future seat allocations could be linked to actual voter turnout, suggesting this might encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
- The bill passed with 37 votes in favour, while Parliament postponed a related vote concerning amendments addressing issues with namesakes among candidates from the same party list.
The amendment to the Election of Members of the House of Representatives Law is based on registered voter numbers as of 2 October 2025, when the supplementary electoral roll was incorporated into the permanent register. As it stands, total registered voters across Cyprus number 561,253.
The calculation method for seat distribution by district follows the procedure outlined in the election law for first and second seat allocation after voting concludes. Interior Committee chairman Aristos Damianou observed that under automatic voter registration, Nicosia would not lose a seat and might even gain one, potentially occurring in subsequent parliamentary elections.
Chrysanthos Savvides remarked on the significance of the vote, describing it as a historic day for Paphos, which is experiencing growth both politically and in sports, referencing Pafos FC. ‘This means we Paphians will have another strong voice in parliament,’ he stated.
Marinos Mousiouttas highlighted the implications of automatic voter registration legislation, suggesting that the seat could eventually return to Nicosia. Similarly, Charalambos Pazaros called it a historic moment for Paphos, noting that it resolves a longstanding issue regarding compulsory single preference voting, as voters will now have a second choice.
Andreas Themistokleous expressed that no MP would oppose what he deemed ‘logic and justice,’ asserting that the seat rightfully belongs to Paphos. However, he cautioned that automatic registration might lead to further seat redistribution, affecting other districts as well.
Demetris Demetriou emphasised the necessity of applying population proportions to ensure fair representation. In contrast, Marinos Sizopoulos pointed out that the Cypriot parliament must not remain the smallest in the EU and urged for an increase in the number of MPs to fulfil obligations more effectively.
Onoufrios Koulla proposed that future seat allocations could be linked to actual voter turnout, suggesting this might encourage greater participation in the electoral process.
The bill passed with 37 votes in favour, while Parliament postponed a related vote concerning amendments addressing issues with namesakes among candidates from the same party list.