Katie Clerides, daughter of former President Glafcos Clerides, had died at the age of 76, Disy, the party her father founded, announced on Monday.

Disy said flags at party premises were flying half-mast and that the party would be covering all funeral expenses.

President Nikos Christodoulides described Katie Clerides as a “prominent figure in public life, who left an indelible mark on Cypriot society through her work”.

“With a spirit of service and social sensitivity, she contributed substantially both through her actions in political life and through her multidimensional charitable activities,” he said.

He added that she “left behind a body of work characterised by hard work and genuine love for her fellow human”.

“She was one of the first women to claim an active role in politics, paving the way with her example. Her presence and contribution will remain a point of reference for those who believe in the power of social solidarity and public responsibility,” he said, before offering “sincere condolences” to her family.

Political parties and organisations also expressed their sorrow and extended their condolences to the family.

Katie Clerides was born in London on May 10, 1949. She spoke four languages – English, Greek, German and French – and studied sociology and law in London, and political science in New York.

Her career spanned four decades and included being elected municipal councillor in 1986 and three terms as Disy MP starting in 1991.

She was an ardent activist for peace, reunification and rapprochement, women’s and children’s rights, and animal welfare.

The funeral will be held at 10am on Wednesday at the church of saints Constantinos and Eleni in Nicosia. Disy leader Annita Demetriou will deliver the eulogy.

Disy called for donations to Arodafnousa palliative care centre in memory of Katie Clerides instead of wreaths.

On Tuesday, between 9am and 5pm a book of condolences will be opened at Disy headquarters in Nicosia, as well as online at https://clerides.cy/katieclerides/