As political parties continue their preparations for the local and general elections scheduled for December 6 in Cyprus, a noteworthy situation is emerging among the local population. Politicians participating in the election campaign are increasingly visiting towns and villages. However, many citizens appear to be unconcerned about these elections. Their primary concern is the struggle to make ends meet.
The public has recently reported that the cost of living has risen, making it difficult for them to meet their daily needs. “Our concern is not the election, it’s survival,” they emphasize, highlighting the urgency of economic hardship. A group of citizens asserts the need to prioritize the resolution of the Cyprus problem, but they also stress that economic conditions must improve beforehand.
Citizens’ Opinions
Halil İbrahim Narcı is among those who prioritize the issue of living costs. Narcı stated, “How we will sustain our lives is more important. Our lives are tough, but we expect authorities to be honest with the public and to solve the problems.”
Mustafa Yaman expressed skepticism about the elections changing anything, stating, “Our priority is surviving because there will be no solution with the Greeks.” He also expressed that they expect authorities to implement systems in the country.
Mehmet Şanlıel mentioned that he ranks survival above the Cyprus issue. “Our first priority is making a living, then achieving a resolution in Cyprus. The inflation we face means our income is insufficient. However, if a solution comes, it should be a bi-communal process,” he said.
Economic Struggles and Election Disillusionment
Semral Baba explained that citizens’ focus is on making a living and that they have distanced themselves from politics during this period. Baba noted that people are generally experiencing economic difficulties and are expecting realistic solutions from the authorities.
Kamil Birkaya expressed that elections in the country are conducted with deception, stating, “We have economic problems; therefore, our priority is survival.” As Birkaya pointed out, until authorities address the public’s issues, overcoming economic difficulties seems unlikely.
Kadir Özgüvercin highlighted his lack of interest in politics, reaffirming that making a living is the priority. He mentioned the struggle to find affordable products as indicative of economic concerns. Özgüvercin stated he has lost faith in finding a solution in Cyprus.
Ali Esendağlı argued that without resolving the Cyprus issue, there can be neither enhanced living conditions nor genuine elections. Esendağlı emphasized that the current state consists solely of survival struggles, and without viable solutions, other problems will also remain unresolved.
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
