Early this morning, Averof Neophytou sent out an invitation calling on the press to attend a press conference. After eight days of silence following Anita Dimitriou’s resignation, everyone’s attention turned to the need for answers regarding the developments within DISY. In the end, the sole item on the agenda was the rising cost of living, with the discussion on the presidential race limited to just a few remarks following persistent questions from journalists.

Averof Neophytou reiterated that he will never betray the party’s base. He stated confidently that he has collected the 500 signatures as well as a host of supporters over the past few months.

““Averof was ready three months ago as well. I swore an oath of honor that I would never harm either my party or my fellow candidates.” ^{Averof Neophytou}

At the same time, without invoking internal party procedures, he spoke in a definitive manner as a candidate for President of the Republic when asked whether his proposals, to be precise, also reflect the views of DISY.  

“I express them as an active citizen and a candidate for the presidency of the Republic.” ^Averof Neophytou

“Radical” proposals

In a clearly campaign-oriented speech, he criticized the government’s measures, which, in his view, have widened social inequality. He is sounding the alarm about the risk of energy poverty.

Averof Neophytou suggests that the President of the Republic raise the issue of lifting energy sanctions against Russia with his European counterparts.  

“We cannot keep shooting ourselves in the foot. It is unacceptable for the U.S. to ease energy sanctions while Europe refuses even to reconsider its policy.” ” ^{Averof Neophytou}

calls on the president to show political courage while using examples to explain how high prices benefit the state coffers.  

“Every time the cost of living rises, it’s as if the state wins the lottery or the jackpot.  It’s unacceptable that for every 100 euros spent at the gas station, 34–37 euros go toward taxes.” ^{Averof Neophytou}

In the government

camp The conference led to an all-out attack on Averof Neophytou by Nikos Tornaritis, who claims to be surprised. At the same time, he called on DISY to clarify whether the former president’s positions regarding the Russian sanctions reflect the party’s views.    

“Averof Neophytou has a political obligation to clearly explain his proposals and their broader implications.Cyprus cannot afford a European policy of double standards.” ^{Nikos Tornaritis}

Averof Neophytou will return next week for a discussion regarding the presidential election.

Watch Evangelos Agapios’s report