DISY's commitment to the principles that have defined it since its founding, and the assurance that the party will continue to pursue its own independent course in Cyprus' political life rather than operate according to the ambitions or choices of other political forces, were at the centre of Annita Demetriou's address at the party's 50th anniversary event in Nicosia on Tuesday evening.
In the presence of historical and founding figures of the party, as well as hundreds of DISY members and supporters, Demetriou delivered a clear message. “Democratic Rally is not a flag of convenience for anyone else's cause,” she said, adding that citizens should judge the party on its proposals, positions and plan for the future of the country. “Democratic Rally is not defined by others, nor does it determine its strategy based on the actions of others,” she stressed.
A message for the next day
The DISY leader described the party's success in the recent parliamentary elections as a mandate of responsibility rather than a reason for complacency.
She said Democratic Rally would continue to put forward concrete proposals on the economy, the cost of living, housing, energy, education and healthcare, seeking to remain a force for stability and responsible politics.
At the same time, she reiterated that DISY would continue to defend the European orientation of the Republic of Cyprus, the rule of law and reforms that strengthen the country's competitiveness.
Institutions and AKEL
Demetriou made particular reference to the issues currently dominating public debate, arguing that the position of Pindarou remains firmly in favour of the independence of institutions and the judiciary.
“We cover up nothing. Everything in the open. Zero tolerance. No one is ever above scrutiny,” she said, stressing that all cases should be investigated objectively, without exceptions and without political interference.
Within the same context, she directed criticism towards AKEL, arguing that the difference between the two parties lies in their consistency towards institutions.
“The defining difference between us and AKEL,” she said, “is precisely this.”
“Our stance does not change depending on who is being investigated. We do not reject findings when they do not suit us,” she added, arguing that “selective trust in institutions serves not democracy but partisan expediency.”
Praise for the Anastasiades administration
Demetriou also devoted significant attention to the ten-year administration of Nicos Anastasiades, who was absent from the event, describing its overall record as having “an undeniably positive impact” on the country.
The DISY leader stressed that the previous government achieved the exceptionally difficult European feat of reversing the consequences of a deep economic crisis, leading Cyprus from bankruptcy and business closures to growth, credibility and the creation of quality jobs.
She also praised the major social and institutional reforms of that period, highlighting the introduction of the General Healthcare System (GeSY), the establishment of the Guaranteed Minimum Income, the national minimum wage and the minimum pension, as well as the substantial strengthening of the country's defence and international relations.
Cyprus issue and historical responsibility
The Cyprus issue occupied a prominent place in her speech, with Demetriou stressing that the reunification of the country remains DISY's foremost national objective.
“Our highest vision is the liberation and reunification of our homeland,” she said, underlining that DISY continues to support a settlement based on United Nations resolutions and European principles and values.
Concluding her speech, she said that the 50th anniversary of the party's founding should not be seen as the end of a historical journey but as the beginning of a new one.
She stated that Democratic Rally aspires to remain a leading force in political developments, committed to stability, democracy and the country's European future.
