As we all know, Elena Tsagrinou has been internally selected by CyBC/RIK to represent Cyprus in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, which will be held in Rotterdam. Her entry “El Diablo” was released yesterday together with its video clip, and despite a great reception with the fans, the “Cypriot Christians” organization had a much different view on the song.

“Cypriot Christians” have openly criticized the song, and have started an online petition, asking for the withdrawal of the song, as they see it as “scandalous”:

Dear fellow citizens,

The participation of Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “El Diablo” is scandalous for us Christians. Join us in the voice of protest.

At the moment of writing, this petition has gathered almost 4000 signatures. The Cypriot far-right political party ELAM also called upon the withdrawal of “El Diablo”:

Even if the verse  “I gave my heart to el diablo (the devil) … I love el diablo “is on a metaphorical level, it does not stop sending wrong messages. At a time when our people are being tested hard, such moves hurt and offend our faith, the ultimate refuge of man and his hope.

We call on the Board of Directors of RIK to reverse its decision and choose a song that will promote the beauty, tradition and history of our place. We want Europeans to know this beautiful Mediterranean island for its special features and not for its love for the devil.

Additionally, it was reported that members of the public supporting these organizations have been calling the Cypriot broadcaster all day, threatening to burn down the head office of CyBC, if the song is kept. Cypriot police is now carrying out patrols around CyBC’s office building in order to prevent any intentions of attacks.

CyBC has defended their song, and the spokesperson ahead of the Management of CyBC has made the following statement:

It is the eternal struggle between evil and good. Through this troubled relationship with Stockholm syndromes and despite the paranoia he experiences, in the end the truth always shines, where she seeks help to get out and shake the bonds on a path to freedom.

Especially nowadays, we hope that the song and its correct interpretation will be an inspiration not only for women but for anyone who experiences similar situations.

“El Diablo” is available on Panik Record’s website (click), and the song and its video clip will be available on Youtube, and all streaming platforms as well in the coming days.