Former Democratic Rally (DISY) president Averof Neophytou has announced that he will ask the party to back his candidacy for the Presidency of the Republic in 2028. He made the announcement in a video statement, set against the backdrop of the unfinished project at Vasilikos. In it, he framed his bid around a new social contract with citizens and a change of course in the way the country is governed.
Seeking the party’s vote of confidence
In his statement, Mr Neophytou said he would call on DISY members to support his candidacy. He described his aim as forging a new social contract with citizens and changing direction in the governance of Cyprus.
“Today I announce my decision to ask my fellow members of the Democratic Rally for their vote of confidence for the 2028 presidential elections,” he said.
Cost of living and housing at the centre
The former DISY leader opened his statement by focusing on the daily problems facing citizens, with particular emphasis on the rising cost of living.
He said that people in towns and villages across Cyprus work hard but struggle to meet their financial obligations, as high prices and the cost of electricity and fuel weigh on households and businesses.
He made special reference to young people. He said they find it difficult even to cover their rent, while owning a home has become, in his words, “an unattainable dream”.
The Cyprus problem
Turning to the Cyprus problem, Mr Neophytou warned that prolonged stalemate carries new risks, stressing that “Cyprus cannot remain and will not remain divided”.
He argued that a change of course is needed, with leadership that understands how the state functions, takes decisions and delivers results.
“I want to offer my knowledge and experience so that we can tackle these challenges. Without counting the political cost, but guided by the interest of society,” he said.
Message to the Democratic Rally
In his announcement, Mr Neophytou referred to his long involvement with DISY and to the shared struggles with the party’s officials and supporters.
He said DISY has played a decisive role in the country’s course, particularly during difficult periods. He added that he had shared successes, disappointments and battles with party members in defence of common principles and values.
He linked his decision to a sense of responsibility towards the party, but above all towards Cyprus and its citizens.
A new social contract
Setting out the political framework of his initiative, Mr Neophytou proposed a new social contract with citizens, which he summed up in the phrase “To listen, to act and to be accountable”.
According to Mr Neophytou, this commitment will guide efforts to unite DISY and to regain the trust of society.
He also set the goal of achieving a change in government through political alliances, with the active participation of civil society.
Mr Neophytou spoke of the need for a strong economy that creates prosperity for all, a modern state that serves the citizen, and a free and secure homeland.
Closing his announcement, he asked DISY supporters for their backing so that, as he put it, they can move forward together with the changes the country needs.
“Let us give hope and prospects back to our young people. This is my own responsibility,” he concluded.
The announcement marks Mr Neophytou’s formal return to the race for the Presidency of the Republic. His first political milestone will be securing the support of the party he previously led.
