George Pamporidis is also in the running in the DISY primary elections. The party’s member of parliament, who had announced earlier that morning that he would make his final decisions later that day, posted a short video in the afternoon calling on DISY supporters to back him with the familiar refrain… “All who are faithful, come forth.”

GEORGE PAMPORIDIS “It’s time
to turn the page. I have decided to seek the DISY nomination for the presidency of the Republic. I’m doing this because I believe it can unite our base, but also appeal to every other political camp that shares the vision of a modern Cyprus.”

He speaks of introversion and discord that are causing bitterness within the party. And because he stated from the outset that he would have difficulty gathering the 500 signatures, he already had a webpage ready for any members who wish to support him.

This morning, he held meetings with DISY officials. His decision would be influenced by Averof’s stance, though Averof continues to keep his cards close to his chest. Giorgos Pamporidis had stated that if only Annita Dimitriou entered the race, he was prepared not to run. Ultimately, he decided to seek the nomination regardless of the former party president’s moves.

The DISY leadership and Anita Dimitriou herself believe that Averof Neophytou will seek the nomination within the party. Pindarou has reached this conclusion based on his post, in which he assured that he would not hurt his fellow party members, as well as indications from his close associates.

YIANNIS KAROUSOS—DISY Vice President: “I
consider it a given that our former President will come and participate in DISY’s processes.”

Other party officials are responding to Averof Neophytou’s concerns about a leadership coup.

Xenia Konstantinou—DISY Deputy Press Secretary:
“Whoever succeeds in the process, we will all stand united with them.”

Michalis Sophocleous, who disagreed with Annita’s hasty announcement, calls for personal ambitions to be set aside in favor of the party.

MICHALIS SOPHOCLEOUS—Former DISY Member of Parliament: “It saddens me
; the very survival of DISY is at stake. People see decisions being made in the heat of the moment. And they see party officials pouring gasoline on the fire instead of holding a fire extinguisher.”

Sources report that the party president admitted that her announcement could have been made last Monday in the party’s lobby, though she has no regrets. Her intention is to proceed with an official announcement, unless something else happens to make her change her mind. Nearly

49,000 members are eligible to vote on November 28. Alpha contacted the faction’s organizing committee to ask whether the influx of new members had increased as of last week, and the answer was no. From now on, any member who joins the party before the internal party elections will not be eligible to vote.

See the report by Evangelos Agapios: