DISY officially launches internal race for 2028 presidential candidacy

The Democratic Rally (DISY) in Cyprus has officially begun its internal nomination process to select a candidate for the 2028 presidential elections. On October 26, 2026, former party leader Averof Neophytou and former health minister Giorgos Pamboridis formally submitted their candidacies at the party's headquarters in Pindarou, Nicosia. Panagiotis Dimitriou has been appointed as the president of the electoral committee overseeing the process.

While the filing process has commenced, the party is conducting an audit of the required 500 signatures submitted by each candidate, as it was discovered that some signatories are not registered party members. Averof Neophytou arrived with a crowd of supporters and emphasized party unity, pledging to support whichever candidate is chosen by the membership. Giorgos Pamboridis opted for a more low-key arrival, stressing his confidence in the party's internal mechanisms to ensure the integrity of the vote. Both candidates have expressed their commitment to the party's future regardless of the outcome.

The final internal election to determine the party's nominee is scheduled to take place on November 29, 2026. Following the official submission phase, the electoral committee is expected to validate the nominations, allowing the internal campaign period to proceed in full force.