Frixos Koulermos denies allegations of pressuring DISY leadership

On October 10, 2026, Frixos Koulermos, a founding member of the Democratic Rally (DISY) and publisher, issued a formal statement addressing rumors concerning his role in a recent meeting at the party's Pindarou headquarters. The meeting, which included DISY President Annita Demetriou, former leader Averof Neofytou, and MP Georgios Pamporidis, preceded Demetriou’s announcement to withdraw from the party's presidential nomination race. Koulermos categorically denied allegations of blackmail or intimidation, describing such claims as malicious. He clarified that he attended the meeting alone, following a personal invitation from Demetriou, and aimed to support party unity against what he termed as "Trojan horses" within the organization.

According to Koulermos, upon his arrival at the office, he was joined by Averof Neofytou, who he believes was invited separately. Koulermos stated that within the private discussion, Demetriou announced her intention to withdraw from the presidential candidacy in an effort to restore internal party harmony. He maintained that he participated as a founding member and not in his capacity as a media publisher, dismissing any suggestion that his influence was improperly exerted. The situation remains a subject of intense political speculation as the party processes the implications of Demetriou's decision regarding the 2028 presidential elections.