Disy and Direct Democracy Cyprus address criticism over House presidency deal
Following the re-election of Annita Demetriou as President of the House of Representatives, the Disy party and Fidias Panayiotou’s party, Direct Democracy Cyprus, have faced intense criticism regarding an alleged political deal. Disy leadership maintains that their cooperation with the four-member Direct Democracy group was based solely on a social policy agenda and was not linked to the 2028 presidential elections. The agreement centers on three core pillars: constructing 10,000 new homes, providing cash grants to new mothers, and increasing monthly pensions. Panayiotou defended his party's support for Demetriou, arguing that their four votes were not decisive for the final outcome. Conversely, the opposition party AKEL characterized the agreement as populism, questioning its feasibility and political integrity. DIKO also joined the discourse, alleging that Panayiotou had sought similar engagement with the President of the Republic. Despite the controversy, both Disy and Direct Democracy Cyprus insist the deal was a transparent effort to address the cost-of-living crisis and family support priorities.