DISY sets timeline for 2028 presidential candidacy contest

The Democratic Rally (DISY) in Cyprus has officially set the stage for its internal election to select a candidate for the 2028 presidential race. Following a long session of the party's Political Bureau on October 2, 2026, it was decided to extend the internal process by two weeks. Nominations are now scheduled for October 26, with the internal election set to take place on November 28.

The race is expected to be a three-way contest. Current party leader Annita Demetriou and former Health Minister George Pamboridis have confirmed their intentions to seek the nomination. Furthermore, former party leader Averof Neofytou has requested the official forms to collect the required 500 signatures, signaling his entry into the internal contest despite earlier ambiguity regarding his participation. Candidates must secure 500 signatures, including 100 from the party's Supreme Council, to qualify.

This decision follows internal debate over the timeline, with the Political Bureau opting for a compromise that avoids excessive delays while ensuring a democratic selection process. The party aims to present a unified policy proposal for the upcoming national elections, emphasizing adherence to its statutes and internal regulations.