Annita Demetriou withdraws from 2028 presidential race

Annita Demetriou, President of the Democratic Rally (DISY) and Speaker of the House, announced her decision to withdraw from the race for the party's 2028 presidential nomination. During an interview on the Alpha Cyprus program "Bras De Fer," she clarified that the decision was made to preserve party unity and rejected allegations of personal blackmail as "baseless and shameful" attempts to damage her politically. She described the current internal state of DISY as a "minefield" characterized by tensions and internal conflicts.

Demetriou openly admitted to feeling hurt by the stance of former leader Averof Neofytou but stated that she would provide him with her full support should he decide to run as the party’s candidate. She categorically ruled out DISY supporting an AKEL candidate in the second round of the 2028 elections. Furthermore, Demetriou dismissed speculation regarding her resignation from the party leadership, confirming her intention to remain in her position and expressing a strong interest in seeking a second term as President of DISY. She noted that efforts to resolve internal relations, specifically with Harris Georgiades following his resignation from the Glavkos Clerides Institute, remain ongoing.