Democratic Rally (DISY) Deputy Spokesperson Elena Koushou Hadjidemetriou has confirmed that she was approached about a possible role in government but said she declined the proposal, citing her party’s position in opposition. Speaking to Politis FM, she said DISY remains committed to what it describes as a responsible opposition role while continuing to scrutinise government actions.
Koushou Hadjidemetriou also addressed her new party responsibilities, public confidence in political parties and the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection project.
New role within DISY
Koushou Hadjidemetriou said she will continue practising as a lawyer alongside her duties as DISY's deputy spokesperson.
“Whenever the party needs me, of course. Beyond that, I will certainly continue with my work as a lawyer,” she said.
Asked whether her appointment reflected recognition of her performance during the recent parliamentary elections, she said the efforts of all candidates had been acknowledged by the party leadership.
“All candidates worked hard, helped our party and gave their best. Perhaps that was taken into account. We see a DISY that is continuously renewing itself and wants to utilise all its members. I think everyone can acknowledge that during the election campaign the party came first. Democratic Rally recognises effort,” she said.
Government approach declined
Responding to reports that she had been approached regarding participation in government, Kousiou Hadjidemetriou confirmed that discussions had taken place.
“Whatever approach may have been made, as long as my political party remains in opposition, my response could not have been anything other than a polite refusal,” she said.
She acknowledged that she considered the possibility before reaching a decision.
“When it concerns a position from which you can help your fellow citizens, you cannot lightly say no,” she said.
However, she added that her position remained unchanged.
“My answer remains the same. It is a party-based decision.”
Message on opposition role
Koushou Hadjidemetriou said DISY intends to continue presenting itself as a responsible opposition party.
“It is a responsible party that works with consistency, seriousness and responsibility, and it will continue to do so. Where there are concerns, we will substantiate them, while where there are correct decisions, we will acknowledge them. That is the message Democratic Rally will continue to send, that it is a responsible opposition,” she said.
Priorities as deputy spokesperson
Discussing her new responsibilities, Koushou Hadjidemetriou said her main priority is the clear communication of DISY's positions and maintaining contact with the public.
“The role of deputy spokesperson includes clearly communicating the positions of Democratic Rally, informing citizens about the party’s proposals and interventions, and participating in public dialogue in a documented and responsible manner,” she said.
She added that she wants to maintain the direct contact with citizens that she developed during the election campaign.
“Having had the honour and opportunity during the campaign to come closer to people, I want to preserve and continue that,” she said.
Political trust and public expectations
Asked about declining public trust in political parties, Koushou Hadjidemetriou said politicians must listen to the concerns expressed by society.
“There is plurality in our society. Our job is to listen to that plurality and adapt to what we hear, without leaving behind our principles and positions,” she said.
Position on the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection
Koushou Hadjidemetriou said DISY does not question the importance of the Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection project or the need to complete the project's viability study.
However, she said the party is seeking a clearer strategy and planning framework.
“It is not a matter of disagreement or agreement. Democratic Rally is saying that a project of such scale and importance requires serious management. It is a project of strategic, energy and geopolitical importance and therefore requires full technical and economic documentation,” she said.
She added that DISY's concerns relate to what it considers conflicting messages surrounding the project.
“We need responsible planning. Decisions must be based on data and not on simple statements,” she said.
Call for a clear timetable
Asked whether the government was causing unnecessary delays, Koushou Hadjidemetriou said she was not assigning blame regarding the timing of the study's completion.
“It is not a matter of attributing responsibility for delays. It is such a complex interstate project that it requires time. The issue is to see what our strategy is today and what the timetable is for decision-making,” she said.
She also rejected suggestions that DISY's interventions are driven by electoral considerations ahead of 2028.
“The Cyprus-Greece electricity interconnection is a project of national importance. Cyprus remains energetically isolated. Interconnection with the European network strengthens the country's energy security. We believe this project should proceed, but it should proceed correctly, so that no one is burdened and we do not reach a dead end. That would be tragic for everyone,” she said.
