Internal DISY party conflict follows confrontation between top officials

Tensions within the Democratic Rally (DISY) party in Cyprus escalated this week following an intense argument between Deputy Chairman Efthimios Diplaros and Vice-Chairman Yiannis Karousos. The conflict began during an online meeting of the party’s communication group, where Karousos questioned Diplaros regarding his attendance at a social gathering in Platres last Saturday. Karousos labeled the event as a campaign gathering for President Nikos Christodoulides, while Diplaros asserted it was a private family event attended by various political figures, including members of other parties.

Following the heated exchange, which involved accusations of disloyalty and political betrayal, DISY President Annita Demetriou intervened to de-escalate the situation. She has called for a meeting with both officials to take place no later than next Monday to resolve the internal friction. The incident has highlighted broader anxieties within the party concerning its direction, upcoming 2028 presidential election strategies, and individual relationships with the current administration.

In public remarks, both officials have sought to minimize the personal nature of the conflict, with Karousos confirming that Demetriou has requested they cease public statements that fuel internal divisions. Demetriou has urged the leadership to remain focused on national issues, specifically the Cyprus problem, rather than engaging in internal disputes.