Former Averof Neophytou has signalled that he intends to lower the political temperature ahead of upcoming internal DISY elections, saying his priority is to engage directly with party members rather than participate in public disputes.
In a written statement titled "The Time Belongs to the Party's Supporters", Neophytou said that during the month remaining before the internal vote, he will devote his efforts to listening to the concerns and priorities of DISY members.
Focus on members and society
Neophytou said he wants to speak with citizens about the challenges facing families, employees, self-employed workers and small business owners, as well as concerns among young people about their future and among pensioners about their quality of life.
He also said he plans to discuss the future of the Cyprus issue with party supporters and exchange views on the changes they believe are necessary.
According to the former party president, the coming weeks should be dedicated to dialogue with the party base rather than public exchanges that fuel division.
'Unity is the priority'
Neophytou made clear that he does not intend to spend his time engaging in public arguments during the campaign.
"These are the people to whom I want to dedicate my time, not public discussions that lead to confrontations which, instead of strengthening the unity of the party, undermine it. Unity is the priority," he said.
His intervention comes amid heightened tensions within DISY following a series of public disagreements between senior party figures over the leadership race and the party's future direction.
Call for a common path forward
Concluding his statement, Neophytou stressed the need for a shared course between the party and society, arguing that Cyprus requires meaningful change.
He said his vision is for:
- A fairer society
- A more effective state
- A free and secure Cyprus
The former DISY leader's decision to reduce his public interventions is being viewed as an attempt to ease tensions within the party and redirect attention towards communication with members ahead of the internal elections.
