Cyprus’ Democratic Rally (DISY) has officially entered the race to select its presidential candidate, with Averof Neophytou submitting his nomination on Monday and Giorgos Pamboridis expected to follow.
The party’s members will choose their preferred candidate in an internal vote scheduled for November 29, with both men widely expected to contest the nomination.
Neophytou arrived at DISY headquarters shortly after 11.30am, accompanied by his wife, and presented his candidacy to the party.
Neophytou calls for unity after November vote
Speaking at the party offices, Neophytou said he was submitting his candidacy with a sense of responsibility and emotion, describing DISY as his political home and family.
He referred to the challenges facing young people and older generations, including the rising cost of living, and said he understood their concerns and frustrations.
Neophytou also called on party members to unite behind whoever wins the nomination on November 29.
“We must all stand together and united,” he said, stressing that unity would involve the party leadership, officials and tens of thousands of members.
Pamboridis expected to submit nomination
Pamboridis was expected to arrive at the party headquarters at 12.30pm to submit his nomination.
Andreas Stavrinidis, head of DISY’s organisational department, is responsible for receiving the nomination documents.
Party sources said DISY president Annita Demetriou would not be present because of prior commitments in the House of Representatives. Deputy president Efthymios Diplaros was also absent, as he was abroad.
Candidates need 500 supporting signatures
Under the nomination requirements, prospective candidates must collect 500 supporting signatures, including at least 100 from members of the party’s Supreme Council.
DISY deputy spokesperson Xenia Constantinou described the process as a historic day for the party, saying it was the first time such a procedure had taken place.
She also said the validity of the supporting signatures for both nominations had already been checked.
The internal vote on November 29 will determine who represents DISY in Cyprus’ next presidential election.
Also read: Cyprus housing crisis driven by foreign demand, expert says
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
