YouTube Star Fidias Panayiotou Elected as Cyprus MEP, Shaking Up Traditional Politics
In a surprising turn of events, Fidias Panayiotou, a popular YouTuber from Cyprus, has been elected as an independent Member of the European Parliament (MEP). Known for his audacious prank videos and stunts, Panayiotou secured the third-largest number of votes, garnering 19.4% despite having no prior political experience.
A New Face in European Politics
Who is Fidias Panayiotou?
Fidias Panayiotou, 24, has built a substantial following online with over 2.6 million subscribers on YouTube. His fame primarily stems from his daring and humorous content, including attempting to hug 100 celebrities, such as Elon Musk, and spending a week in a coffin. He describes himself as a “professional mistake maker,” a moniker that resonates with his unconventional approach to life and now, politics.
Election Surprise
Panayiotou’s election has sent shockwaves through the political landscape in Cyprus. “It was a shock what happened, a miracle,” Panayiotou remarked to state broadcaster CyBC. His success is seen as a message to traditional political parties to modernise and better engage with the populace, especially younger voters.
The Campaign and Election Results
Modernising Politics
Panayiotou declared his candidacy in January with the primary goal of motivating young people to participate in the political process. His campaign was not about winning but about inspiring political engagement among the youth. His approach clearly resonated, as demonstrated by his significant voter turnout.
Voter Demographics
According to exit poll data analysed by Philenews, Panayiotou captured 40% of the votes from the 18-24 age group and 28% from the 25-34 group. This strong support from younger voters played a crucial role in his electoral success.
Election Turnout
Cyprus, with a population of about 900,000, saw more than 683,000 registered voters. The turnout was just under 59%, a notable increase from 45% in the 2019 elections. Analysts attribute this rise in part to the “Fidias factor,” highlighting Panayiotou’s impact on mobilising voters.
Panayiotou’s Message and Future Plans
A Call for Change
Appearing on Cypriot TV station Alpha Cyprus in his signature style—trainers, shorts, a suit jacket, and three neck ties—Panayiotou admitted his limited knowledge of politics and the EU. However, his candidacy was driven by a frustration with the continued rule of “nerds” in Brussels and a desire to shake up the status.
Conclusion
Fidias Panayiotou’s unexpected victory in the European Parliament elections highlights a significant shift in the political landscape of Cyprus. His election is a clear message from the voters, particularly the younger demographic, that traditional political parties need to modernize and better understand the concerns and communication methods of today’s electorate. Panayiotou’s success underscores the power of social media and the growing influence of unconventional candidates in shaping the future of politics.
