The Limassol district branch of the right wing Democratic Rally party, DISY, has issued its first public statement on allegations that MP Nikos Sykas assaulted a woman, stressing that while all forms of violence are condemned without reservation, judgment must be left solely to the justice system.
In a statement released on Thursday, the party branch said there can be no tolerance for violent behaviour under any circumstances. At the same time, it underlined that in a state governed by the rule of law, responsibility for determining guilt lies with the courts and not with public debate or what it described as “people’s courts”.
The announcement comes amid continuing internal strain within Disy following the decision by the party’s political bureau to exclude Sykas from its electoral ballot. That decision has triggered debate and visible tension inside the party, particularly among local structures in Limassol, where Sykas has maintained strong ties with the community.
The Limassol district secretariat said it refused to become part of any effort aimed at undermining the dignity of the MP or his family. It acknowledged Sykas’ political record to date, his work, and the relationship of trust he has built with local society over the years.
The statement also emphasised that the district organisation would not participate in practices of public targeting or personal discrediting, maintaining a clear distinction between condemning violence as a principle and passing judgment before the completion of legal procedures.
While recognising the political considerations behind the decision taken by the DISY’s political bureau, the Limassol branch warned against attempts by organised groups or individuals to exploit the case in order to damage the party as a whole.
Concluding its statement, the Limassol district secretariat said it would continue to work for unity and a constructive presence of Disy in the province, guided by responsibility and adherence to the party’s principles and values.