Former Democratic Rally (DISY) president Averof Neophytou has submitted more than 3,000 signatures of support for his candidacy in the party's internal process ahead of the 2028 presidential election, significantly exceeding the 500 signatures required under party rules.
The submission came a day after Neophytou announced his intention to seek the party's nomination, and hours after fellow candidate George Pamboridis said he had also secured the necessary endorsements.
Nomination process underway
Neophytou arrived at DISY headquarters in Nicosia on Thursday carrying five boxes containing nomination forms.
He said the signatures exceeded 3,000 and explained that they were submitted in advance to allow the party sufficient time to verify them.
The formal submission of his candidacy is scheduled for 26 October, while DISY's extraordinary nationwide electoral assembly is set for 28 November.
In a brief statement, Neophytou said: "United together for a better tomorrow, for a just society and a reunited and secure Cyprus."
Focus on support from party members
Asked whether the signatures included senior party figures, Neophytou highlighted the backing of thousands of party members, describing them as the movement's "ordinary soldiers", alongside what he said was support from almost all party officials.
He noted that he had spent 50 of his 65 years within DISY and referred to longstanding relationships with party members and officials.
Speaking about Pamboridis, he described the contest as a celebration of democracy and expressed hope that the party would remain united after the vote.
Pamboridis confirms required signatures
Earlier on Thursday, George Pamboridis said during an appearance on the programme Alpha Kalimera that he had also completed the collection of the required 500 signatures.
He reiterated his criticism of provincial quota provisions within the nomination process, describing them as reflective of an older political approach.
Regarding commitments to support the eventual winner, Pamboridis said the key issue was that the losing candidate complies with the agreed rules of the process, adding that it would be inconceivable for a participant to subsequently run independently.
Comments on the political landscape
Pamboridis said cooperation with President Nikos Christodoulides would not be possible unless divisions stemming from the 2023 presidential election were addressed.
He remarked that "with an apology, even miracles can happen", while noting that the President has not announced whether he intends to seek another term.
Pamboridis also described the current administration's performance as "more or less satisfactory", while arguing that it had fallen below expectations previously set.
He disclosed that he informed former President Nicos Anastasiades of his candidacy and received his support and good wishes.
Internal debate continues
Pamboridis also criticised comments made by DISY vice-president Yiannis Karousos, who has suggested that some party figures divide their time between the Presidential Palace and DISY headquarters.
He called on Karousos to identify individuals by name and argued that such exchanges contribute to division within the party.
The internal campaign is expected to continue until the party's electoral assembly on 28 November, when members will choose DISY's candidate for the 2028 presidential race.
