Neophytou and Pamborides launch bids for Disy presidential nomination

On October 26, 2026, Averof Neophytou and Giorgos Pamboridis formally submitted their candidacies for the Democratic Rally (Disy) presidential nomination in Nicosia. The event marks the official start of the internal party race to select a candidate for the 2028 presidential election in Cyprus.

Neophytou arrived at the party headquarters on Pindarou Street around 11:30, accompanied by his wife Maria Selipa and supported by a crowd of followers and several members of parliament. In contrast, Pamboridis maintained a more understated presence during his arrival. Both candidates have emphasized the need for party unity, with Neophytou publicly pledging to support whoever wins the internal vote. Political analysts note that the competition is intense, with the final outcome currently considered unpredictable.

The internal party election is scheduled to take place on November 28, 2026. This process is expected to determine the party's direction and its chosen representative for the upcoming national elections, as members prepare to cast their ballots to decide the future leadership.