Averof Neofytou and Giorgos Pamborides contest the DISY presidential nomination

A contest for the Democratic Rally (DISY) party's presidential nomination is currently underway between Averof Neofytou and Giorgos Pamborides. The internal party election, scheduled to conclude on November 28, 2026, represents a significant moment for the party as it seeks to move past the political challenges experienced during the 2023 elections.

Giorgos Pamborides, a former Health Minister, defines his platform as a 'radical center-right' movement, characterizing Neofytou as an entrenched member of the political establishment. Pamborides highlights his role in the creation of the General Health System (GHS) as a core achievement and criticizes Neofytou’s past opposition to the reform. He has established three criteria for the party's candidate: the ability to unify DISY, the potential to reach the second round of presidential elections, and the capacity to win. Conversely, Neofytou has adopted a more visible and communicative campaign style, marking a shift from his previously more reserved public image observed during his earlier political tenure.

The two candidates represent divergent political philosophies, with Pamborides advocating for a clean break from the past, while Neofytou remains a central figure within the party's traditional hierarchy. The outcome of the vote on November 28 will determine the candidate chosen to lead the party into the next national election cycle.