Irene Charalambides has rejected claims attributed to Akel regarding her political actions, as tensions between the former party member and the politburo intensify ahead of the parliamentary elections.

In a public response issued on Monday, Charalambides dismissed reports of coordinated actions with the former auditor-general and Alma leader Odysseas Michaelides aimed at undermining Akel, stating that “what is being said does not correspond to reality”.

Her remarks follow reporting in Phileleftheros suggesting a ‘covert war’ involving her and Michaelides against the party leadership.

Charalambides described the pre-election climate as increasingly confrontational, stating that “the vulgarity has no end in this election period” and referring to what she characterised as “organised lynching” against her.

She said she would not engage in such exchanges, adding that “we do not respond to the vulgarities”.

The dispute reflects the breakdown in relations between Charalambides and AKEL following her departure from the party and subsequent collaboration with the Alma movement, led by Michaelides.

The disagreement has centred on both political strategy and past internal decisions, including positions taken during the 2023 presidential elections.

Addressing criticism from Akel figures, including parliamentary representative Giorgos Loukaidis, Charalambides defended her stance, stating that responses to public criticism were necessary.

“Attack brings defence. And that is what we did, we defended ourselves,” she said, referring to exchanges over comments about Michaelides.

Akel sources have expressed concern over what they describe as efforts to weaken the party internally and create division among its members.

They have also criticised remarks perceived as targeting party leadership, including references to secretary-general Stephanos Stephanou.

The tensions were reflected in a televised confrontation between Charalambides and Loukaidis, where both sides disputed the circumstances of her departure from Akel.

Charalambides maintained that “you expelled me”, while Loukaidis accused her of showing “ungratefulness to the party” and misrepresenting events.