Political developments in Cyprus ahead of the 2028 presidential elections

Internal political maneuvering is intensifying in Cyprus as the Democratic Rally (DISY) prepares for the 2028 presidential elections. Former President Nicos Anastasiades has proposed a preliminary agreement between DISY and incumbent President Nikos Christodoulides, suggesting that whichever party fails to reach the second round of voting should support the other against any candidate backed by AKEL. This proposal has been met with significant resistance, notably from DISY Vice-President Yiannis Karousos, who dismissed the idea as a “message of defeatism” that undermines party unity.

Meanwhile, the process for selecting a candidate within DISY is ongoing, with Averof Neophytou and George Pamporidis emerging as the primary contenders for the party's nomination. A final decision is scheduled for November 28. Pamporidis is currently working to gather the required 500 signatures to formalize his candidacy. Simultaneously, the Democratic Party (DIKO) is evaluating its own path, with some members, including Zacharias Koulias, advocating for an autonomous candidacy of party leader Nikolas Papadopoulos, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with their current alliance with President Christodoulides.