**Demetriou Rules Out Support for Christodoulides' Second Term**
In a significant political development, Annita Demetriou, the leader of the Democratic Rally (Disy), announced on Tuesday that her party will not support President Nikos Christodoulides for a second term in the upcoming 2028 presidential elections. During an interview with CyBC, Demetriou emphasized that Disy would put forward its own candidate, affirming the party's commitment to its political identity and future direction.
Demetriou's remarks come as Disy navigates its role as an opposition party. When directly asked about the possibility of supporting Christodoulides in the next election, she firmly stated, “No, we have made that clear. We are in opposition.” While she acknowledged that Disy would continue to support government policies aligned with its values, she clarified that this would not extend to backing the current president.
The party leader also addressed the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which she described as the "number one issue" affecting citizens. Demetriou pointed out that many households are struggling to meet their basic needs and advocated for targeted assistance for vulnerable groups, including low-income pensioners, families with children, single-parent households, and individuals with disabilities. She criticized the government's approach of implementing across-the-board increases and benefits, arguing that such measures diminish the fiscal capacity to provide more focused support.
In addition to addressing economic concerns, Demetriou called for a clear political commitment from the government regarding the Great Sea Interconnector project. She expressed frustration over what she characterized as mixed messages from the finance and energy ministries concerning the initiative. Furthermore, she highlighted the need for advancements in electricity storage, upgrades to the electricity grid to facilitate renewable energy integration, and increased support for vulnerable households facing high energy costs.
Demetriou also emphasized the importance of enhancing public transport, particularly in relation to school buses, and advocated for the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Her comments reflect a broader focus on sustainability and the need for strategic investments in energy and transportation.
The question of Disy's presidential candidate for the 2028 elections remains open, with Demetriou acknowledging that discussions have included her name, as well as those of former Disy leader Averof Neophytou and former health minister George Pamboridis. However, she stressed that the party would adhere to its internal procedures before making any official decisions.
Demetriou further articulated her vision for a centre-right and right-wing alliance ahead of the elections, aligning this strategy with Disy’s political identity. This approach suggests a desire to consolidate support among like-minded parties and voters in the lead-up to the next presidential race.
In her critique of the current administration, Demetriou also addressed the issue of appointments to semi-government organizations and the role of the presidential advisory council. While she acknowledged President Christodoulides' constitutional right to make appointments, she argued that the focus should not be on accommodating individuals based on their political affiliations or past voting behavior. In response to Christodoulides' previous comments regarding political parties and appointments, she noted that he had been part of the political landscape himself, having served as a minister for a decade.
Nikos Christodoulides, who previously held prominent positions within Disy, including government spokesperson and foreign minister, ran for president in 2023 as an independent candidate after resigning from his ministerial role in early 2022. His candidacy was supported by various smaller parties, including Diko and Edek, marking a shift in his political alignment away from Disy.
As Cyprus approaches the 2028 presidential elections, the political landscape continues to evolve, with Disy positioning itself to present a distinct alternative to the current administration. Demetriou's statements reflect a commitment to addressing pressing social issues while also asserting the party's autonomy in the political arena.