Internal turmoil and presidential nomination process in the Democratic Rally (DISY)

The Democratic Rally (DISY) in Cyprus is currently navigating a period of internal instability as it prepares for the 2028 presidential election. On October 26, Averof Neofytou and Giorgos Pamporidis are set to officially submit their candidacies for the party nomination at the Pindarou headquarters. Candidates are required to secure a list of 500 supporters, including 100 members from the party's Supreme Council, to formalize their bid. The process follows the sudden withdrawal of Annita Demetriou, which added to the climate of uncertainty within the party.

Political tensions have been further exacerbated by Averof Neofytou’s public proposal to lift energy sanctions against Russia, a move that the party leadership promptly distanced itself from, reaffirming its commitment to EU and Greek policy alignment. Amidst this, former President Nicos Anastasiades has initiated a series of consultations with key figures, including Neofytou and Pamporidis, to discourage internal factions and mitigate the risk of a deep, structural schism within the party.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Party (DIKO), a coalition partner of the current government, is re-evaluating its own strategy for 2028. Its leader, Nikolas Papadopoulos, is facing pressure from some party members to pursue an independent candidacy, though he has currently declined to pre-commit to any specific path while keeping communication channels open.