She described the decision by DISY President Annita Dimitriou to withdraw from the internal party “race” to select the party’s candidate for the 2028 presidential election, DISY Deputy Press Secretary Xenia Constantinou.
Appearing as a guest on the “Alpha Enimerosi” program, Ms. Konstantinou spoke of an act that demonstrates that Ms. Dimitriou has decided to set aside any political or personal ambitions and focus on the need for party unity. When asked how Ms. Dimitriou woke up today, she replied:
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“Composed and very confident about the decision she has made.”
She did not, however, hide the fact that Ms. Dimitriou’s decision came as a surprise and caused distress among DISY officials and members, since at yesterday’s meeting of the party’s Executive Bureau, the President had announced her intention to consult with Averof Neophytou and Giorgos Pamboridis.
Ms. Konstantinou acknowledged that whatever issues and problems are plaguing DISY will not be resolved in a single day, but she noted that the party now has a clearer direction and path regarding its goals and pending issues as it moves toward the upcoming presidential election. At the same time, she noted that any unexpected developments will be handled by the party leadership.
When asked whether former Minister of Justice Ionas Nikolaou is reported to have expressed interest in participating in the selection process for the DISY candidate, Ms. Konstantinou replied that he has every right to do so and explained that both the application form as well as the signature sheet for submitting a candidacy, are posted on the party’s website and are accessible to everyone.
Ms. Konstantinou also explained why Ms. Dimitriou announced and then withdrew her candidacy on the grounds of unity, noting that the circumstances were different during the two time periods, as well as the intense concern about division expressed by both party leaders and the rank-and-file.
“The past few days have been difficult, and in her wisdom, the President took on this responsibility. She judged that, above all else, unity is what matters.”
Regarding the upcoming procedures at Pindarou, Ms. Constantinou reiterated that they will be conducted normally and democratically, making it clear that the outcome will be respected by all. At the same time, she emphasized that the party’s Deputy President will lead the election campaign, as provided for in the DISY bylaws.
