**Diko Minister Reaffirms Support for Christodoulides' 2028 Re-election Bid**
Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides has publicly reaffirmed the Democratic Party (Diko)'s commitment to supporting President Nikos Christodoulides in his re-election campaign for 2028. His statements come in response to remarks made by Diko leader Nicholas Papadopoulos, who suggested that the party's backing for Christodoulides is not guaranteed.
In an interview with television channel Ant1 on Wednesday, Charalambides emphasized that Diko is not seeking an alternative candidate for the upcoming election. “Diko has a president of the republic. It is not looking for a candidate,” he stated, underscoring the party's current alignment with Christodoulides. He pointed out that the president has recently expanded Diko's role in the government by appointing two additional ministers during a cabinet reshuffle last month.
Charalambides elaborated on the significance of Diko's support, stating that it extends beyond mere governmental participation. He highlighted the collaborative election program established between Diko and Christodoulides, referring to it as a "contract with all of us, and that is what we correctly call it, with the people, with society." He noted that the ministers from Diko, along with other government officials, are actively engaged in implementing this program, which he believes has been successful in enhancing Cyprus's international standing and economic performance.
The Minister cited recent achievements, including a prudent fiscal policy that has led to continuous upgrades of the economy, positioning Cyprus as having the highest growth rates in the European Union. He also mentioned that public debt has been reduced to below 50% of the gross domestic product (GDP). Additionally, Charalambides highlighted the government's allocation of €200 million for upgrading public hospitals as part of its commitment to improving healthcare services.
When asked about the compatibility of his views with those of Papadopoulos, Charalambides acknowledged the ongoing discussions within Diko regarding the party's future direction. He remarked, “We are 18 months away from the presidential elections, and I believe at this moment, it is not the time to have such discussions.” He expressed uncertainty about Papadopoulos's intentions, stating, “I do not know to what extent [Papadopoulos] is looking elsewhere,” but confirmed that no discussions about leaving the current government have taken place within the party.
Papadopoulos had indicated earlier in the week that Diko has initiated an "internal party dialogue" concerning its support for Christodoulides, with the final decision expected to be made by the party's central committee. This dialogue reflects the party's historical context, as Diko previously supported Christodoulides' campaign in 2023, while Papadopoulos himself ran for president in 2018. The party also endorsed the candidate from the Democratic Rally (Disy), Nicos Anastasiades, in the 2013 elections. Furthermore, Papadopoulos' late father, Tassos Papadopoulos, was a candidate in the 2008 and 2003 elections while serving as party leader.
As the political landscape in Cyprus evolves, the dynamics within Diko and its relationship with Christodoulides will be closely monitored in the lead-up to the 2028 presidential elections. The party's internal discussions and strategic decisions will likely play a significant role in shaping its future direction and influence in Cypriot politics.