Cypriot citizens called to register to vote in presidential elections

All citizens of the Republic of Cyprus, 18 years old or over, who reside regularly in Cyprus, have the right to vote in next February’s presidential elections, according to a Central Electoral Service press release.

New eligible voters, even those who will be 18 before the 17th of February 2008, are called to register on time so as to obtain an electoral booklet and be able to vote. The last day for registration is the 2nd January 2008.

The press release notes that applications will not be accepted after this date. Application forms for registration can be obtained at the Ombudsman offices, at the Citizens Service Centers, the Electoral Service, as well as the Interior Ministry website www.moi.gov.cy.

Cyprus’ President Tassos Papadopoulos will seek re-election and House President and General Secretary of left-wing AKEL Demetris Christofias, former Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides, backed by the Democratic Rally party, and former Agriculture Minister Costas Themistocleous have announced their decision to run for the presidency.

The first round of the presidential elections will be held on 17 February 2008, followed by a second round on 24 February, if no candidate secures 50% plus one vote in the first round.