Former Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades has ignited a political firestorm following his appearance on ANT1’s podcast, where he addressed accusations levelled against him by former Democratic Rally (DISY) party president Averof Neophytou.
Anastasiades, responding to criticisms about his handling of the Crans-Montana talks and the recent presidential elections, launched a scathing attack on Neophytou, describing him as “bitter” and blaming him for DISY’s electoral defeat.
The ex-president challenged Neophytou to “engage in self-criticism”, citing a poll that reportedly showed Neophytou’s support at a mere 6%.
“If he had been closer to the people of DISY if he had listened to the feelings of the people, he would be President today. The fact that he conducted a poll and got 6% was encouraging?” Anastasiades said.
Neophytou swiftly retaliated, quoting Greek poet Manolis Anagnostakis and accusing Anastasiades of leaving a legacy of “partition” for Cyprus.
The public spat has caused visible discomfort within DISY ranks. Current party president Annita Demetriou made veiled criticisms of both men, urging focus on the party and the country’s future rather than past grievances.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion. What I can say is that it would be better for us, given the situation we are currently managing, to care about DISY and our Cyprus, to say less or let the past remain in the past,” she noted.
DISY’s parliamentary spokesman, Nikos Tornaritis, chose to comment on the situation by quoting verses from Greek poet Dionysios Solomos.
The controversy has spilt over to other political factions, with Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL) General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou joining the fray, referencing lyrics from Alkinoos Ioannides (so many lies filled the words) to criticise Anastasiades.
