Politis

Democracy Doesn't End at the Ballot Box

Published January 27, 2026, 10:24
Democracy Doesn't End at the Ballot Box

Dr. Alexandros Zachariadis, a researcher at the University of Cyprus and the London School of Economics, comments on the relationship between elections and authoritarianism, prompted by recent discussions in Cyprus and the United States. He emphasizes that an electoral victory does not provide any cover or immunity from the law, and that any allegations accompanied by evidence must be thoroughly investigated. This institutional framework, he states, applies to cases such as the murders in Minnesota as well as the case of the video and the Mayor of Paphos. For democracy to function properly, the separation of powers, the independence of the police and the prosecution, and a commitment to investigate and convict anyone who breaks the law, regardless of their position or political influence, are essential.