Giorgos Pamboridis announces presidential ambitions and warns of organized crime influence

On August 25, 2026, during an appearance on the Alpha TV program 'Alpha Kalokairi,' DISY Member of Parliament Giorgos Pamboridis announced his intention to seek his party's nomination for the 2028 presidential elections. Pamboridis stated he would run if a primary contest occurs, though he indicated a willingness to step aside if a consensus is reached to ensure party unity. He has initiated a call for consultations with party leaders Annita Demetriou and Averof Neophytou to discuss the selection process.

Beyond his electoral bid, Pamboridis issued a significant warning regarding the infiltration of organized crime into political circles, asserting that criminals maintain direct access to political figures. He urged for the immediate strengthening of national security mechanisms to address this threat. Additionally, he criticized the current administration’s inefficiency and a lack of resolve in handling public sector issues, citing excessive abuse of sick leave as a major impediment to public service productivity.

Pamboridis expressed strong reservations regarding a recent DISY constitutional amendment that delegates the selection of the party's presidential candidate to the general membership. He warned that this internal competitive process could damage party unity and foster division among leadership, favoring a more consolidated approach to candidate selection instead.