Democratic Rally opens nomination process for 2028 presidential election

The Democratic Rally (DISY) in Cyprus officially began its nomination process for the 2028 presidential election on October 26, 2026. Former party leader Averof Neofytou and party MP and former Health Minister Giorgos Pamborides submitted their candidacies at the party’s headquarters on Pindarou Street. This marks the first time in the party's history that members will participate in an open democratic process to choose their presidential nominee.

Neofytou arrived with a large group of supporters, emphasizing party unity and his commitment to addressing social issues like the cost of living. In contrast, Pamborides made a more understated entry, focusing on the need for a quality electoral process and expressing confidence in the party's internal mechanisms. Both candidates officially endorsed the principle of post-election unity, pledging to stand together regardless of the final outcome. The party leadership was notably absent from the ground floor during the submissions, with the process coordinated by the Electoral Committee.

The internal vote is scheduled to take place on November 28, 2026. The party's Electoral Committee has confirmed the validity of both nominations, and the process is expected to determine the party's official candidate who will represent them in the upcoming national election.