Opposition DISY leader Annita Demetriou has called for unity within her Democratic Rally (DISY) party against populist forces ahead of next year’s parliamentary elections, targeting both the ALMA movement and the far-right ELAM party in her strongest political attack since assuming party leadership.
Speaking at an event honouring former DISY parliamentarians, Demetriou declared a “general mobilisation” of party supporters for what she described as a critical electoral battle in the coming year.
The DISY leader took direct aim at various political opponents, warning against dangers from populist forces. Her remarks targeted both Odysseas Michaelides’s ALMA movement and ELAM, whilst taking a clear stance against comments by AKEL general secretary Stefanos Stefanou regarding property purchases by Israelis, which she characterised as antisemitic.
Warning against populism
“The reforms we dared to make, the representatives of populist darkness would never dare to attempt,” Demetriou said, noting that meaningful change comes with political costs. “And populists will always put their short-term gains above the country’s interests”.
She added: “Cyprus cannot tolerate more dangerous amateurism and cheap sensationalism, wherever it comes from. The country does not need easy slogans that systematically bring national defeats. It needs unity, seriousness and institutional responsibility”.
Demetriou reminded the audience of what she termed a shameful defeat weeks earlier involving a resolution submitted by ELAM to the European Parliament. “Now another incident occurred, with a MEP who gave substance to the pseudo-state. Unacceptable and condemnable,” she said.
Call for responsibility
The DISY leader said she would not dictate how citizens should vote but emphasised the real consequences of electoral choices. “Our vote brings real consequences. To the economy, to each of us and to our national issues. That’s why prudence and moderation are needed”.
“I appeal for seriousness to everyone. We don’t want more toxicity, we don’t want more superficiality,” she stressed.
Her speech carried strong political overtones as she addressed a party audience she seeks to rally and mobilise ahead of elections, reconnecting them with the party’s mission.
Party mission and unity
“Our mission does not change, whether we are in government or opposition: We always move to guarantee stability, to help our country face challenges and move forward,” Demetriou said.
She added that the party advances united, with pluralism of views among its members, but determined to respond to citizens’ concerns with positions and policies.
Demetriou emphasised that DISY was not founded to rest on its laurels but to lead. “If we do not unite and rally ourselves, we will not unite anyone. That’s why today we renew our commitments here”.
Electoral objectives
The DISY leader outlined three key objectives for the party:
- Continue efforts to liberate and reunite the country so it becomes a source of peace and prosperity for all
- Address society united in coming months to create a large alliance of responsible citizens against polarisation and demagogy
- Maintain consciousness as a political force with historical depth, stable ideas, cadres and contribution
Former DISY leader Averof Neofytou attended the event. Demetriou noted that former President Nicos Anastasiades was abroad on a scheduled trip but conveyed his affection for the party and its supporters.
