The member organisations of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK last night held the Federation’s biennial elections for its Secretariat.

The incumbent Federation President, Peter Droussiotis, was returned to the post unopposed for a second two year term.

Similarly, the three Vice Presidents, Christodoulos Stylianou, Andreas Papaevripides and Michael Kashis and the incumbent Treasurer, Ninos Koumettou, were re-elected unanimously.

Mr Bambos Charalambous was newly elected unanimously as General Secretary of the Federation.

The elections also returned a higher representation of women onto the Federation’s expanded 37-strong Secretariat than ever before.

In statements made to the media following his re-election, Mr Droussiotis expressed his gratitude to Federation members for their continuing support saying that he was humbled by the unanimous support that he had received from the membership of the Federation and pledging to work even harder in the future.

“Our efforts to renew the Federation and upgrade its work over the last two years have meant that it is now the acknowledged voice of the UK Cypriot community, able to reach politicians and policy-makers across the whole political spectrum in this country.

The Cyprus problem is at a critical point in its long history with ongoing negotiations between President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mr Mehmet Ali Talat aimed at reuniting the island accelerating. In these circumstances, we will intensify our programme of work in this critically influential country in order to support the process of the island’s reunification.

“Stability and continuity are absolutely vital during this crucial period. I am, therefore, grateful to our members for returning me to the role of President for a second term, and give my sincerest assurance that I will continue to commit my efforts wholeheartedly. In Andreas, Christodoulos, Michael and Ninos, and our new General Secretary, Bambos Charalambous, I have a very capable team to support me and our Secretariat’s endeavours, and I look forward to getting back to business with them all.”

Newly elected General Secretary, Bambos Charalambous, said:

“I am honoured to serve in this important position and the Federation’s members can be assured that I will give my all in the post. We have a robust forward strategy and actions that will help to enhance the goals of the Federation and our community’s presence in Britain, as well as its contribution both to the cause of Cyprus and to the national life of this country. I am delighted to be given this opportunity to play a part.”

A full list of the newly elected members of the Federation’s Secretariat will be posted on the Federation’s website.