Disy sets timetable to choose nominee for 2028 presidential election

Nicosia, Cyprus. The Democratic Rally (Disy) on Friday set the timetable for selecting its nominee for the 2028 presidential election. Candidacy submissions will take place on October 26, followed by an electoral congress vote on November 28.

Party members to choose nominee

Meeting at Disy headquarters in Nicosia, the political bureau, the party’s highest decision-making body, said the process would allow tens of thousands of Disy cadres to vote for the nominee. It described the process as “unprecedented” by Cypriot standards.

The bureau also called on presidential hopefuls to state publicly that they would fully respect the verdict of the party base.

Current party leader Annita Demetriou and former leader Averof Neofytou have so far announced that they will seek the nomination.

Demetriou calls for unity

Speaking after the political bureau meeting, Demetriou called for unity once the party selects its candidate.

“Everyone must stand next to him or her,” she said.

Asked about Neofytou’s remark about a “tainted deck”, Demetriou did not address the remark directly, saying she did not view such comments as being made in bad faith.

Requirements for candidates

Candidates seeking Disy’s backing must be party members and obtain signatures from at least 500 fellow members. At least 100 of those signatories must belong to the party’s supreme council, its lower internal decision-making body.

Candidates who secure the required signatures will be placed on a ballot open to all party members. The winner will be declared the party’s presidential candidate.