Olive Pits
Small, Sharp & Bitter
Cyprus Style Power Plays
Former Deputy President of right-wing opposition DISY Haris Georgiades has proposed a united front of traditional right-wing and centre-right forces to counter what he describes as the populism and dogmatism of the left.
The problem is not the populism but the assumption that DIKO and DIPA both centrist parties, are somehow immune to it. Tradition says that it's more likely that he wants DISY to with DIKO and DIPA, with an eye on the 2028 presidential elections. While the notion of alignment is left largely unexamined, the suggestion raises (our) eyebrows: are DIKO and DIPA truly free of populist tendencies? Has DIKO not shown dogmatism on the Cyprus issue? And isn’t DIPA known for its clientelist politics?
Georgiades seems to favour these parties because they’re expected to support the state budget when it’s debated in Parliament this October. But behind the scenes, the real game is about presidential alliances. Everyone, including Georgiades, is jockeying for position ahead of 2028. Within DISY, half the senior figures are eyeing either the party leadership or the presidency itself. At this rate, DISY is starting to look less like a political party and more like a tribal council where everyone’s wearing a feathered headdress and no one’s left to pitch the tents.
A Gathering of the Faithful
On Monday 25 August, around 70 DISY-affiliated figures met at Sofroniou restaurant on Governor’s Beach. Their common thread? In the 2023 presidential elections, they backed Nikos Christodoulides in either the first or second round. The meeting, attended by President Christodoulides himself, had been postponed due to the wildfires.
Organised by Michalis Vasiliou, a former DISY councillor in Limassol, the gathering at Governor’s Beach was a reunion with fish platters and political ambitions. Among the attendees were Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, former Justice Minister Ionas Nicolaou, former Education Minister Prodromos Prodromou, and Yiannis Ioannou, the athletic one, presumably there to ensure the political sprint toward 2028 remains well-conditioned.
Also in attendance were Christodoulides’ old comrades from the Anastasiades era, suggesting the President isn’t just planning a second term, he’s already assembling the squad. Three factions emerged from the grill smoke: one cheering Christodoulides like he’s already won, another trying to broker peace between him and House Speaker Annita Demetriou, and a third, the ex-DISY wanderers, angling to connect the Presidential Palace with the far-right ELAM, like political matchmakers with questionable taste.In short, every flavour of DISY was plated up: loyalists, opportunists, intermediaries, and a few who just came for the meze and a selfie opportunity
Podcast Controversy
Journalist Michalis Michael recently revisited the circumstances surrounding the death of EOKA hero Gregoris Afxentiou. Although he’d previously spoken about it on Netcast without backlash, his appearance on Fidias podcast sparked a political storm. The real target wasn’t Michael, it was the MEP himself, accused of being a British propagandist and traitor. What is terrifying for politicians is the 80,000 votes Phidias received in the European elections and their agony may launch a political party.
A Quiet Visit to the Presidential Palace
On Tuesday 26 August, former President Anastasiades quietly visited President Christodoulides. Later that day, Christodoulides addressed the Overseas Cypriots Conference with Anastasiades present, expressing pride in having served in his administration. Sources suggest the meeting went well, possibly even involving a promise of support for 2028. Christodoulides has grown disillusioned with Annita Demetriou and is actively seeking DISY figures for ministerial roles. There’s speculation that the two also discussed the long-delayed findings of the Anti-Corruption Authority, an issue that deeply concerns Anastasiades. Critics argue the Authority, appointed by him, may be inclined to bury the case.
Influencer Intimidation Scandal
A police officer formerly with Cyprus Intelligence (KYP) allegedly threatened influencer Ms Tsikkinis who has publicly criticised the President. The officer, reportedly related to Christodoulides, was swiftly transferred by Tasos Tzionis. However, the case took a bizarre turn: police are now investigating Tsikkinis for revealing the officer’s identity, a criminal offence under KYP regulations. The real question remains,was the influencer being surveilled, and does KYP monitor citizens on behalf of political allies?
Pressure on Paris Markou
Retired brigadier Paris Markou, son of missing general Tasos Markou, faced intense pressure not to run on DISY’s ticket. Even ELAM’s president reportedly contacted him, sending messages via the Presidential Palace. Despite calls from various quarters, including KYP, Markou stood firm, pledging loyalty to Annita Demetriou.
Nicosia Uni Expands to Greece
Last but not least, the University of Nicosia is one of four private institutions granted operating licences in Greece, opening its doors this October. Six faculties will be launched, including Medicine, Law, and Engineering. A newly renovated 12,500-square-metre building in Argyroupoli will house the campus, certified with LEED standards for sustainability. “It’s a jewel of a building,” said Council President Nikos Kartakoulis. Hats off to them onwards and upwards.