Internal tensions erupt within DISY over alleged political disloyalty

Tensions escalated within the Democratic Rally (DISY) party in Cyprus this week following a public confrontation between Deputy Chairman Efthymios Diplaros and Vice President Giannis Karousos. The conflict began during an online communication group meeting, where Karousos accused Diplaros of showing political disloyalty by attending a gathering in Platres last Saturday that was also attended by President Nikos Christodoulides. Diplaros rejected the accusation, clarifying that the event was a private gathering hosted by a relative and attended by individuals from various political backgrounds.

Following the heated exchange, which included accusations of betrayal, party leader Annita Demetriou intervened to de-escalate the situation. She has scheduled a meeting with both officials for no later than next Monday to address the rift. In a public statement on social media, Diplaros emphasized that while DISY has always welcomed diverse opinions, political disagreement should not devolve into personal attacks. He further noted that party decisions regarding the 2028 presidential elections would be made through collective democratic processes rather than individual ambition.