Former President of the Democratic Rally (DISY), Averof Neophytou, appeared on the television programme Protoselido, where he spoke about developments in the Cyprus issue as well as internal political affairs.
Regarding UN envoy Maria Angela Holguín’s visit and renewed momentum in the Cyprus issue, Neophytou described her presence in Cyprus as a sign of maintaining the process “through small but positive steps to keep it alive.” He emphasised, “I don’t expect surprises from this visit.” He also noted stagnation in confidence-building measures, especially at the crossing points, adding that efforts may intensify after the elections in the occupied north, potentially leading to a “last attempt” to solve the Cyprus problem.
“Today’s status quo is becoming entrenched in people’s minds”
Neophytou expressed deep concern about the entrenchment of the status quo. He stated, “As time passes, the status quo becomes more deeply rooted. Sadly, it’s becoming normalised not only in practice but also in the minds of ordinary citizens.”
He further noted with alarm that “the average Cypriot – Turkish Cypriot or Greek Cypriot – feels safer under the current status quo and more insecure at the prospect of a solution. That’s tragic. We have an invasion, an occupation, 40,000 Turkish soldiers.”
He called on the leaderships of both communities, the guarantor powers, and the international community to send a clear message: “The status quo is not security. It is the most dangerous thing for a place like ours. We need to find a functional and viable solution to the Cyprus issue.”
On the new political movement ‘Alma’ by Odysseas Michaelides
Commenting on the emergence of the new political formation Alma, led by Odysseas Michaelides, Neophytou said, “Alma is another political movement – not the last one. There is a widespread perception in society of corruption and entanglement, and Odysseas, in his role as Auditor General, was seen as someone who challenged that.”
He added that simply entering politics isn’t enough: “To become a full-fledged political party or movement, you need convincing proposals on national, social, and economic issues. People don’t vote for programmes – they vote as a reaction.”
Neophytou also addressed broader political trends, noting that the rise of anti-establishment parties stems from public disillusionment: “People don’t vote because they believe their problems will be solved. They vote against those they blame or who haven’t solved their problems.”
Referring to Greece as an example, he said, “SYRIZA went from a party of protest to government. Meloni did as well. But we also saw the disappearance of Golden Dawn. You don’t confront these movements through rejection, but with persuasive political proposals.”
DISY’s challenge
Finally, Neophytou stressed the importance of Dimokratikos Synagermos adapting to the new electoral landscape: “We need a strong DISY. Despite its flaws, it’s always been a pillar of seriousness and responsibility. The pie is now divided among more players, and everyone will get a smaller piece.”
He added that the electoral goal will be set by the leadership: “We will support it and work towards the best possible outcome.”
Asked whether he felt he had been unfairly treated in the party’s internal processes, Neophytou admitted, “It took me 20 months to find myself. Now I’ve found my peace. I’ve put it behind me and I’m not willing to go through that process again.”
Also read: President: We are striving by all possible means to reunify Cyprus
