Annita Demetriou, president of Democratic Rally (DISY), named the Cyprus problem as the party's top priority at a meeting of the Limassol District Council, stressing that the current moment demands, in her words, seriousness, strategy and national consensus.
Demetriou said DISY has already moved internally to assess developments on the Cyprus problem, holding a meeting of its Political Bureau, maintaining ongoing coordination through its Cyprus Problem Team, and making contact with elected officials from municipalities and communities in the occupied areas.
According to Demetriou, the period ahead is critical, and DISY must be ready to contribute to initiatives that could lead to a genuine resumption of negotiations. "It is the only path to achieving the liberation and reunification of our homeland, free of occupying troops, guarantees and rights of intervention," she said.
The DISY leader also rejected what she described as "petty party interests, patriotic one-upmanship and communication games" around the Cyprus problem, saying the issue demands credibility and consistency.
'Cyprus cannot afford experiments'
Demetriou also addressed the party's broader political direction, saying DISY would continue on the path of reform and responsible opposition. "Above all, for us it is the country that matters. I am determined to honour that legacy," she said, adding that "Cyprus can afford neither inertia nor experiments."
In the same vein, she criticised populism and toxicity in politics, as well as policies that, in her view, delay reforms and perpetuate problems.
Turning to everyday concerns, Demetriou highlighted issues including housing, traffic, water, the cost of electricity, the cost of living, bureaucracy and the country's low birth rate. "This is where politics needs to be. Beside the people," she said.
New round of grassroots outreach
The DISY leader also announced a new round of party contacts with local branches and its grassroots base, through visits to Local Committees involving MPs and district officials.
Closing her remarks, she said the election result had given DISY "strength, but also great responsibility," noting that the party would continue to place stability, social policy and the country's European path at the centre of its work.
"We are not afraid of challenges. We are not afraid of difficulties. We are not afraid of responsibility," she concluded.
