Democratic Rally prepares for 2028 presidential candidate selection

The Democratic Rally (DISY) in Cyprus is initiating informal preparations for selecting its candidate for the 2028 presidential elections. While official procedures have not yet commenced, the party aims to finalize its selection by early 2027, or potentially sooner, through an extraordinary electoral assembly. This process will mark the first time the candidate is chosen via a universal vote by the party base, following significant constitutional amendments adopted in 2025.

According to the party's statutes, potential candidates must secure at least 500 signatures from supporters to qualify, with a mandatory requirement that at least 100 of these signatures come from members of the Supreme Council. Current reports suggest a competitive race between incumbent party leader Annita Demetriou and former leader Averof Neofytou. Additionally, George Pamboridis remains active in the unofficial internal campaign, although sources indicate he lacks the broad support currently enjoyed by Demetriou and Neofytou.

The party intends to accelerate these procedures as the registration lists close, shifting away from the previous model where candidates were chosen by the Supreme Council. This democratic shift underscores the party's strategy to engage its grassroots membership ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle.