Internal tensions flare in DISY party following public confrontation

Tensions have escalated within the Democratic Rally (DISY) party in Cyprus following a heated exchange between Deputy Chairman Efthymios Diplaros and Vice President Giannis Karousos. The conflict was triggered by Diplaros's attendance at a gathering in Platres on September 12, 2026, which was attended by President Nikos Christodoulides. Karousos accused Diplaros of political disloyalty and participating in an event supporting the President, leading to a volatile argument during an online meeting of the party's communication team.

The public dispute, which spilled over into social media, saw Diplaros defend his actions as attending a family friend's event and call for party unity. Karousos responded by asserting that party members must respect the official collective decision for DISY to remain in opposition, arguing that such decisions cannot be applied selectively. The friction is exacerbated by ongoing internal maneuvering ahead of the 2028 presidential elections and debates regarding the appointment of Nikos Tornaritis as a special envoy to the President.

DISY President Annita Demetriou has intervened to manage the situation, scheduling an urgent meeting for party officials by Monday to restore internal cohesion. Both parties have been invited to resolve the dispute, as the leadership seeks to prevent further factionalism and focus on party objectives.