Giorgos Pamporidis has alleged that Alithia publisher Frixos Koullermos pressured him to withdraw from the race for the DISY presidential nomination, while also taking a swipe at rival Averof Neophytou over Koullermos' involvement in discussions surrounding the contest.
Speaking to CyBC, Pamporidis suggested Koullermos was acting as Neophytou's "guardian", remarking that "everyone seems to have brought their guardian to the meeting", before adding that he had attended alone.
Claims of pressure to withdraw
Pamporidis alleged that Koullermos urged him to abandon his candidacy if he wanted to preserve his political future.
According to Pamporidis, the publisher told him he should step aside rather than play the role of a political rebel.
Pamporidis said he rejected the suggestion and made clear he intends to remain in the race.
"Rebels don't stand in elections, and I will stand," he said.
Praise for Annita Demetriou
The DISY MP also spoke warmly about Annita Demetriou's decision to withdraw from the contest, describing her move as an act of political integrity.
"Annita Demetriou proved she is more ethical than all of us," he said.
Pamporidis argued that Demetriou was well positioned to win the internal contest but chose to prioritise the interests of the party over her personal ambitions.
He said her decision had earned both his admiration and his "deep respect".
Spotlight on behind-the-scenes manoeuvring
The remarks come amid continuing debate over the events that led to Demetriou's withdrawal and the role played by Koullermos in discussions among the contenders.
The comments also intensify tensions ahead of the contest between Pamporidis and Neophytou for the party's presidential nomination.
