DISY faces internal leadership challenge ahead of 2028 presidential race

Former DISY leader Averof Neophytou has officially announced his candidacy for the 2028 presidential elections, creating significant internal tension within the Democratic Rally (DISY). Neophytou, who declared his bid on September 27, 2026, has criticized the current party leadership for failing to establish a distinct political identity separate from President Nikos Christodoulides's government. In response to this development, current DISY President Annita Demetriou announced that she will also seek the party's nomination, aiming to put her candidacy to a vote by the party members.

The DISY Executive Office has officially set November 14, 2026, as the date for an extraordinary national electoral assembly. For the first time in the party's history, the selection of the presidential candidate will be opened to all approximately 52,000 party members. While Neophytou has been ambiguous regarding whether he will pursue the party nomination or run as an independent, party officials like Giannis Karousos have expressed confidence that he will ultimately participate in the internal process. Annita Demetriou has stated she will abstain from the decision-making discussions concerning the nomination process to ensure complete impartiality.