Democratic Rally

DISY serves a widely diverse spectrum of voters, ranging from hard-line Greek Cypriot nationalists and anti-communists to humanist liberals with post-materialist and post-modern values who advocate human rights.{{Cite book |author=Giorgos Charalambous |title=The Party Politics of the Problem |work=Resolving Cyprus |year=2015 |page=50}} DISY's platform focuses on free enterprise economic policies, lower direct taxes (i.e., on income earned and investment) and higher indirect taxes (i.e., on consumption, excise, and negative externalities), economic development, opposing government deficits, investments in infrastructure, and a practical solution to the Cyprus dispute (though the party base is traditionally more hawkish and hard-line than the party leadership). It is the most explicitly Atlanticist and pro-NATO of Cyprus's parties, and draws its support from middle-class professionals, businessmen, and white-collar employees.{{cite web |title=Cyprus - Political Parties |url=http://countrystudies.us/cyprus/64.htm |access-date=2 April 2016}}

The Democratic Rally (DISY) emerged from the split of the right-wing "Eniaion" into two opposing parties. Following the Turkish invasion and the 1974 coup d'état, internal conflicts within Eniaion led to the creation of DISY, led by Glafkos Clerides, and DIKO, led by Spyros Kyprianou.{{Cite web |title=ΔΗΣΥ: Από τον Κληρίδη σε Δημητρίου, οι κυριότεροι σταθμοί 47 χρόνων |url=https://www.tothemaonline.com/Article/344948/dhsy-apo-ton-klhridh-se-dhmhtrioy-oi-kyrioteroi-stathmoi-47-hronwn- |access-date=2024-07-06 |website=tothemaonline.com |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Γλαύκος Κληρίδης:Ο «πατέρας» του Δημοκρατικού Συναγερμού |url=https://avant-garde.com.cy/new-works/new-identity/glafkos-kliridis |access-date=2024-07-06 |website=avant-garde.com.cy |language=en}} The newly established DISY was a pro-Western{{Cite web |date=September 5, 1976 |title=CYPRUS_1976_E.PDF |url=http://archive.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/arc/CYPRUS_1976_E.PDF}} and anti-communist{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1976-05-16 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/577993?q=%CF%87%CF%89%CF%81%CE%AF%CF%82%20%CE%B1%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%B9%CF%80%CE%BF%CE%BB%CE%AF%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%85%CF%83%CE%B7#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-63,1622,2183,1101 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} party, that brought together the moderate centre-right and former EOKA B sympathisers, both of whom opposed the return of Archbishop Makarios to the presidency.{{Cite book |last=Loizides |first=Neophytos |title=Transformations of the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot Right: Right-Wing Peace-Makers? |date=January 2012 |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan US |isbn=978-1-349-34153-5}} Founded in 1976, DISY's logo is the Nike of Paionios.

In the 1976 legislative election, the newly-established Democratic Rally (DISY) formed an alliance with the far-right Democratic National Party (DEK) to oppose the ruling president, Makarios III. This coalition ran against the governing parties, which had united under the alliance named "Democratic Powers" in support of the president.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1976-09-05 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/578747?q=%CE%BA%CE%BB%CE%B7%CF%81%CE%AF%CE%B4%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-134,1758,2866,1445 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

The Democratic Powers alliance, composed of DIKO, AKEL, and EDEK, won 34 out of the 35 seats. The independent candidate, Tassos Papadopoulos, secured the remaining seat. The DISY-DEK alliance failed to win any seats, leaving them without representation in the parliament.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1976-09-07 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/578748?q=%CE%BA%CE%BB%CE%B7%CF%81%CE%AF%CE%B4%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=503,3273,1803,909 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

Five years after its electoral defeat, in the 1981 legislative election, DISY secured 12 seats in the House of Representatives, establishing itself as the official opposition to Spyros Kyprianou's government. The party received 31.8% of the popular vote, winning the same number of seats as AKEL, which garnered 32.7% and finished first.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · Εξελέγησαν το πρωΐ οι 35 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1244085?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-1624,115,4285,2056 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΣΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ, 1981-05-27 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/598182?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=418,1042,4730,2386 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · Η ΔΕΙΛΙΝΗ, 1981-05-27 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1127230?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-159,631,7399,3733 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} This election marked the first time that former EOKA fighters entered the Cypriot parliament.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΜΕΣΗΜΒΡΙΝΗ, 1981-05-26 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1127384?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-4254,-1,14378,7254 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

The Democratic Rally participated in presidential elections for the first time in 1983, supporting its president and founder, Glafcos Clerides. Clerides faced the incumbent president, Spyros Kyprianou, and the leader of EDEK, Vassos Lyssarides. Kyprianou was supported by the alliance of DIKO and AKEL.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1983-02-13 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/586726?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-378,1023,5816,2934 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Clerides finished second with 33.9% of the vote and lost in the first round, with Kyprianou securing victory with 56.4% of the vote.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1983-02-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/586728?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-166,2277,1925,971 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

The electoral power of the Democratic Rally continued to grow, and in the 1985 legislative election, it finished first, securing 19 out of the 52 seats.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΣΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ, 1985-12-10 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/602010?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-2632,1274,9808,4948 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} In the 1988 presidential election, Glafcos Clerides led in the first round with 33.3% of the votes{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1988-02-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/582074?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-1267,473,7116,3590 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΑΝΕΞΑΡΤΗΤΟΣ, 1988-02-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/549474?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-4309,-331,13095,6606 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} but narrowly lost in the second round to independent candidate George Vassiliou, who was supported by AKEL.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΑΝΕΞΑΡΤΗΤΟΣ, 1988-02-22 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/549475?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-473,447,4717,2379 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1988-02-22 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/582081?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-4038,-1,12573,6343 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} In the 1991 legislative election, the party finished first again and gained one more seat, bringing their total to 20 seats in the House of Representatives.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΣΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ, 1991-05-20 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/910674?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-3022,0,9334,4708 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy |language=el}}

In the second round of the 1993 presidential election, Glafcos Clerides narrowly defeated the incumbent president, George Vassiliou.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-02-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/593937?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-161,1341,3272,1650 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Following his victory, Clerides extended an open invitation to all political parties to form a coalition government.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΧΑΡΑΥΓΗ, 1993-02-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/916524?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-3529,-260,10270,5181 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} After several days of negotiations, a majority government was established, consisting of the DISY and DIKO.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · «Κυθέρνηση ελάχιστης αξιοπιστίας» · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/839151?q=%CE%9A%CE%BB%CE%B7%CF%81%CE%AF%CE%B4%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-222,-116,2405,1154 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Clerides did not seek re-election for the party leadership, and as a result, on June 11, 1993, Yiannakis Matsis became the president of the Democratic Rally, running unopposed.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · Γ. Μάτσης, Α.Παρισινός, Στ.Λοϊζίδης εκλέχθηκαν χωρίς ανυποψήφιο · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1098395?q=%CE%9C%CE%AC%CF%84%CF%83%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-497,352,1717,824 |access-date=2024-07-10 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΣΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ, 1993-06-12 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/910794?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-832,759,6149,3102 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Matsis reassured that the party would continue supporting the government of its founder, Glafcos Clerides.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΜΑΤΣΗΣ: Ο ΔΗΣΥ θα στηρίξει την Κυβέρνηση του Κληρίδη... · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1391716?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=14,-13,1184,568 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}File:Kliridis.jpg, founder and leader of DISY (1976-1993) and President of Cyprus (1993-2003).]]Clerides prioritised the admission of Cyprus into the European Economic Community (EEC), the predecessor of the European Union, and aimed to hold a United Nations National Conference to address the Cyprus problem.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-04-12 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594050?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1480,2609,3250,1639 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Faced with a high budget deficit inherited from the previous administration, Clerides' finance minister implemented measures to reduce public spending and increase taxation.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-04-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594046?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1360,2624,1672,844 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-05-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594102?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=673,762,1866,941 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-07-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594342?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=454,1482,3101,1564 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-09-30 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594604?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=15&xywh=2163,372,2897,1461 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · Τα φορολογικά μέτρα της Κυβέρνησης Κληρίδη · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/1390733?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-126,-196,2827,1356 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

During his presidency, Clerides engaged in multiple discussions with Rauf Denktaş, the "president" of the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, to address the Cyprus problem.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-07-06 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594340?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-448,1546,5204,2625 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-10-09 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594732?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-237,1738,4734,2388 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Clerides sought greater involvement from the United States in resolving the issue, which he conveyed to President Bill Clinton during their meeting in New York.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-05-23 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594117?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-4681,-349,13804,6964 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Additionally, Clerides had a notable disagreement with British Foreign Minister Douglas Hurd over his stance on the Cyprus issue.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1993-11-10 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/594884?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=607,2390,1568,791 |access-date=2024-07-09 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

On June 7, 1997, Yiannakis Matsis, President of the Democratic Rally, expressed his serious dissatisfaction with president Clerides for not listening to the party's input. He also criticised his party for failing to produce substantial policy proposals and for the vindictive behaviour of some members. In protest, he withdrew his candidacy for re-election as president of DISY.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1997-06-07 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592475?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=2288,4365,2032,1025 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1997-06-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592476?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=2&xywh=1016,928,1742,878 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Nicos Anastasiades competed with Demetris Syllouris for the party leadership and won the election with 69% of the vote.

During his first five-year term, Clerides lost the support of his coalition partner, DIKO, which instead backed his opponent, Georgios Iacovou, in the 1998 presidential election.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΔΗΚΟ: Ο Κληρίδης οδήγησε το Κυπριακό στο πιο κρίσιμο αδιέξοδο · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/876091?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-84,-41,2045,981 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Despite being supported by both AKEL and DIKO,{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592894?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=3&xywh=-208,1371,2015,1016 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Iacovou lost the election, with Clerides winning a second term with 50.8% of the vote in the second round.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-16 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592932?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-135,972,2409,1215 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Although Clerides aimed to create an all-party government, AKEL and DIKO strongly opposed his invitation and positioned themselves as "strong opposition" parties.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-17 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592933?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1369,1792,2221,1120 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-18 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592934?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1445,1800,3217,1623 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-20 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592936?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-452,814,5523,2786 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}} After discussions with multiple party leaders, a coalition government was formed between DISY, EDEK and United Democrats (EDI).{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-27 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592943?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=322,1752,2665,1344 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-02-28 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592944?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=8&xywh=-434,638,3021,1524 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

During 1997–1998, Clerides' government made the decision to acquire Russian-made S-300 missile systems, heightening tensions with Turkey, which threatened military action in response.{{cite web |date=23 October 2011 |title=Turkey hints at strike on Cypriot missiles |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/turkey-hints-at-strike-on-cypriot-missiles-1282572.html |publisher=independent |language=en}} The crisis ended in December 1998 when Cyprus relocated the missiles to Greece. The so-called Cypriot S-300 crisis led to the dissolution of the coalition government, leaving only DISY and EDI remaining in the coalition.{{Cite web |title=Cyprus transfers controversial S300 missiles to Greece - People's Daily Online |url=http://en.people.cn/90001/90777/6323968.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160828064132/http://en.people.cn/90001/90777/6323968.html |archive-date=2016-08-28 |access-date=2016-08-20 |website=en.people.cn}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-12-30 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/593565?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1066,2110,2449,1235 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

During his second term, Clerides actively pursued Cyprus's admission to the European Union, engaging in numerous official accession talks.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-03-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/592957?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-2,1185,3489,1760 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 1998-12-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/593515?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=363,1708,2940,1483 |access-date=2024-07-11 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

Clerides had announced that he would not seek re-election for a third term. However, on January 3, 2003, he urged Cypriots to grant him an additional 16-month term to pursue a reunification deal with the self-proclaimed Northern Cyprus. Clerides called on other candidates to support him and form a national unity government to achieve this goal; however, his opponents did not agree to his proposal.{{cite news |last=Jansen |first=Michael |date=2003-01-04 |title=Cypriot President seeking 16-month limited mandate |newspaper=The Irish Times |page=9}}{{cite news |date=2003-01-03 |title=Cyprus president seeks re-election |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/2625291.stm |access-date=28 May 2009 |work=BBC Online}}

In the 2003 presidential election, Glafcos Clerides sought an additional 16-month term to pursue a reunification deal. Although he had the official support of his party, a notable former DISY MP and Attorney General of Cyprus, Alecos Markides, opposed Clerides' candidacy and ran independently in the election. Markides garnered significant support from within DISY, including backing from 5 of the 19 DISY MPs, and secured 6.6% of the vote. Clerides received 38.8% in the first round, while Tassos Papadopoulos, supported by DIKO and AKEL, won the election outright with 51.5% of the vote, making DISY the official opposition.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 2003-01-08 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/600382?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=20&xywh=1371,74,4561,2301 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 2003-02-17 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/598731?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=128,1795,2443,1232 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

Following the election results, DISY President Nicos Anastasiades immediately expelled the five MPs who had supported Markides from the party's registry. These MPs included Demetris Syllouris, Prodromos Prodromou, Riccos Erotokritou, Eleni Vrahimi, and Sofoklis Hatziyiannis. Anastasiades strongly criticised them for undermining Clerides' candidacy and contributing to the party's electoral defeat.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 2003-02-17 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/598731?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=1009,3563,2036,1027 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}} The five expelled members condemned Anastasiades' action and demanded his resignation, warning of a "civil war" within the party.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΦΙΛΕΛΕΥΘΕΡΟΣ, 2003-02-19 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/600485?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=20&xywh=1238,1314,4213,2125 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

On April 24, 2004, Cypriot voters participated in a referendum on the Annan Plan, which proposed the establishment of the United Republic of Cyprus as a federation of two states: Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot. The plan outlined a federal government that would feature a collective Presidential Council, a bicameral legislature, a Supreme Court with equal representation from both communities, and mechanisms for reconciliation and troop reductions.{{Cite web|url=http://www.hri.org/docs/annan/Annan_Plan_Text.html|title=THE TEXT OF THE PLAN|date=April 5, 2004|website=Hellenic Resources Network|accessdate=2018-04-22}}

After an internal referendum, the Democratic Rally officially endorsed the Annan Plan, encouraging its voters to support it with a YES vote. Glafcos Clerides, who was 85, notably remarked that if the majority rejected the plan, he would prefer to die rather than witness the resulting devastating consequences.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-04-16 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/199469?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=105,3154,3782,1907 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |date=2004-04-15 |title=Δραματική έκκληση του Γλαύκου Κληρίδη για «ναι» στο σχέδιο Ανάν |url=https://www.in.gr/2004/04/15/greece/dramatiki-ekklisi-toy-glaykoy-kliridi-gia-nai-sto-sxedio-anan/ |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=in.gr |language=el}}

The Democratic Rally was the only parliamentary party to support the Annan Plan, alongside the smaller United Democrats, leading to a vote against the referendum.{{cite book |url=https://www.gpsg.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/2007-P4-Chadjipadelis1.pdf |title=Analysis of the Cyprus referendum on the Annan plan |page=4}}

File:Matsis.jpg, President of DISY (1993-1997) founder of For Europe alliance (2004) and MEP for the splinter EvroDi (2004-2009).]]

Despite the party's official stance, a significant faction within DISY expressed opposition to the referendum, raising concerns about a potential split of the party. Former DISY president Yiannakis Matsis, who had previously clashed with Anastasiades' leadership, initiated plans to form a new political party called "European Rally", receiving support from expelled MPs Prodromos Prodromou and Demetris Syllouris.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-04-30 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/201618?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=6&xywh=1092,3349,3337,1683 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

The opposers of the Annan Plan followed through on their threats by founding the alliance "Rally For Europe" in preparation for the 2004 European Parliament elections. Among the six candidates were Yiannakis Matsis, former president of DISY, along with Riccos Erotokritou and Prodromos Prodromou, all of whom were critical of Anastasiades' DISY leadership.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-05-15 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/201601?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=3&xywh=690,1567,4538,2289 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}} The alliance also received support from expelled DISY MP and Parliamentary Spokesperson Demetris Syllouris, although he did not actively join it.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · Έξοδος Συλλούρη · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/297590?q=%CF%83%CF%85%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%BF%CF%8D%CF%81%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-636,1127,3349,1607 |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · «Ευρωπαϊκό Συναγερμὀ» στηρίζει ο Δ. Συλλούρης · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/678066?q=%CF%83%CF%85%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%BF%CF%8D%CF%81%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-1578,41,4222,2025 |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=pressarchive.cy}} The Democratic Rally contested the use of the term "Rally" in the alliance's name, citing legal restrictions against other parties using it.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-05-31 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/203392?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=3&xywh=215,2508,3264,1646 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-06-02 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/200360?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=3&xywh=-58,1155,5470,2759 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Ultimately, the alliance was renamed "For Europe" and received 10.8% of the votes, with Matsis securing one of the six seats in the European Parliament. The Democratic Rally narrowly surpassed AKEL, winning two seats with 28.2% of the votes.{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-06-14 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/203411?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-9,1656,4547,2293 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}}

File:Dimitris Syllouris - 2017 (37947273235) (cropped).jpg, expelled DISY MP and president of the splinter EVROKO.]]

Following the elections, the "For Europe" alliance continued to distance itself from its parent party, DISY, and eventually evolved into a registered political party known as European Democracy (EvroDi).{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ, 2004-07-01 · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/200030?q=#?c=&m=&s=&cv=6&xywh=457,1780,3833,1934 |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=pressarchive.cy}} Despite initially endorsing the alliance, Demetris Syllouris refused to join EvroDi and promoted the foundation of a new political movement, the European Party (EVROKO).{{Cite web |title=PIO Digital Collections EL · ΔΗΣΥ: «Με ποιον είστε, κ.κ. Μάτση και Συλλούρη · PIO |url=https://pressarchive.cy/s/el/item/248692?q=%CF%83%CF%85%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%BF%CF%8D%CF%81%CE%B7%CF%82#?c=&m=&s=&cv=&xywh=-212,725,2240,1074 |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=pressarchive.cy}}{{Cite web |title=Κόμματά που ήλθαν, είδαν και απήλθαν |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2016/12/4/312051/kommata-pou-elthan-eidan-kai-apelthan/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Κόμματά που ήλθαν, είδαν και απήλθαν |language=en}}

In 2005, expelled DISY MP Syllouris proposed merging the right-wing parties EvroDi and New Horizons to form EVROKO. He gained support from New Horizons and from a significant faction of expelled DISY MPs and EvroDi members. However, Prodromos Prodromou, president of EvroDi, did not accept the merger proposal. This led to a split in EvroDi, with many of its members, including its vice-president Riccos Erotokritou, joining EVROKO.{{Cite web |last=Polignosi |title=Νέοι Ορίζοντες |url=https://www.polignosi.com/cgibin/hweb?-A=8062&-V=limmata |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=www.polignosi.com}}{{Cite web |last=Polignosi |title=Ευρωπαϊκό Κόμμα ΕΥΡΩΚΟ |url=https://www.polignosi.com/cgibin/hweb?-A=3957&-V=limmata |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=www.polignosi.com}}

The aftermath of the internal disagreements led to the split of DISY into three co-existing parties, each led by influential and notable figures who had played active roles during Clerides' administration.

In the 2006 legislative election, the Democratic Rally finished second to AKEL, securing 30.3% of the vote—its poorest performance since 1976. The European Party, led by expelled DISY MP Demetris Syllouris, garnered a notable 5.8% of the vote, drawing significant support away from DISY. European Democracy, the second splinter party, led by expelled DISY MP Prodromos Prodromou, received only 0.4% of the votes.{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/parliamentary_elections_2006_43/islandwide|title=Βουλευτικές Εκλογές 2006: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}}

File:Иоаннис Касулидис.jpg, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, MEP and DISY's candidate for the 2008 presidential election.]]

After the defeat in the 2003 presidential election, the split of DISY into three parties over opposing views on the Annan Plan, and the loss to AKEL in the 2006 legislative election, the Democratic Rally sought a candidate with broad multi-party support for the 2008 presidential election. Their candidate, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and MEP Ioannis Kasoulidis, received backing from several small parties, including the splinter European Democracy. However, he failed to gain the support of the stronger EVROKO, which instead supported the incumbent Tassos Papadopoulos.{{Cite web |date=2008-02-15 |title=Ποιοι είναι οι υποψήφιοι των κυπριακών προεδρικών εκλογών |url=https://www.in.gr/2008/02/15/greece/poioi-einai-oi-ypopsifioi-twn-kypriakwn-proedrikwn-eklogwn/ |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=in.gr |language=el}}{{Cite web |last=Christophorou |first=Christophoros |title=Οι Προεδρικές Εκλογές του 2008 |url=https://www.eklektor.org/el/proedrikes-ekloges-2008-analysi/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Εκλέκτωρ |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2008-02-17 |title=Ο Ιωάννης Κασουλίδης φέρνει ανατροπή στις προεδρικές εκλογές της Κύπρου |url=https://www.in.gr/2008/02/17/greece/o-iwannis-kasoylidis-fernei-anatropi-stis-proedrikes-ekloges-tis-kyproy/ |access-date=2024-07-12 |website=in.gr |language=el}}

In the first round, Kasoulidis narrowly surpassed the leader of AKEL, Demetris Christofias. However, the Democratic Party, whose candidate Tassos Papadopoulos failed to advance to the second round, supported Christofias, resulting in Kasoulidis losing the election with 46.6% of the vote in the second round.{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_elections_2008_56/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2008: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}}{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_runoff_elections_2008_57/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2008 επαναληπτική εκλογή: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}}

Following the election, Prodromos Prodromou, leader of the splinter party European Democracy, rejoined the Democratic Rally, effectively merging his party with it.{{Cite web |date=2019-07-13 |title=Πρόδρομος Προδρόμου: Ο άσωτος υιός |url=http://www.philenews.com/f-me-apopsi/arthra-apo-f/article/490565/prodromos-prodromoy-o-asotos-yios |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713193839/http://www.philenews.com/f-me-apopsi/arthra-apo-f/article/490565/prodromos-prodromoy-o-asotos-yios |url-status=dead |archive-date=2019-07-13 |access-date=2024-07-13 }}{{Cite web |date=2019-07-14 |title=Το Who is Who της νέας Κυβέρνησης – Τα βιογραφικά όλων... {{!}} Reporter Cyprus {{!}} Πολιτική |url=http://www.reporter.com.cy/politics/article/304082/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190714224523/http://www.reporter.com.cy/politics/article/304082/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2019-07-14 |access-date=2024-07-13 }}

Following the defeat of Ioannis Kasoulidis in the 2008 presidential election, the Democratic Rally maintained its position as the main opposition party.{{Cite web |date=2019-08-05 |title=Δέρβης και Εζεκίας άνοιξαν τον χορό... |url=https://www.sigmalive.com/archive/simerini/politics/reportaz/553496 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190805204943/https://www.sigmalive.com/archive/simerini/politics/reportaz/553496 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2019-08-05 |access-date=2024-07-13 }} The administration of President Demetris Christofias faced significant challenges that led to widespread protests, notably the Naval Base Explosion in Mari{{cite news |date=12 July 2011 |title=Cypriots Riot After Deadly Munitions Blast |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/cyprus-un-would-not-authorize-disposal-of-munitions-that-caused-blast-125427243/170751.html |access-date=13 July 2011 |work=Voice of America |publisher=United States Government}}{{cite news |last=Spencer |first=Richard |date=12 July 2011 |title=Anger grows in Cyprus over 'criminal errors' behind explosion |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/cyprus/8632718/Anger-grows-in-Cyprus-over-criminal-errors-behind-explosion.html |access-date=12 July 2011 |work=The Daily Telegraph |location=London}}{{cite news |last=Morley |first=Nathan |date=13 July 2011 |title=Anger Grows in Cyprus Over Munitions Blast |url=https://www.voanews.com/a/anger-grows-in-cyprus-over-munitions-blast-125503253/167748.html |access-date=13 July 2011 |work=Voice of America |publisher=United States Government}} and the 2012–2013 Cypriot financial crisis.[https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2012/dec/19/christofias-cyprus-sorry-state President Demetris Christofias has brought Cyprus to this sorry state]. The Guardian (2012-19-12). Retrieved on 2013-18-03.[https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/25/world/europe/conservative-candidate-elected-president-in-cyprus.html?_r=0 Conservative Is Elected President in Cyprus] The New York Times, 24 February 2013.[https://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/16/business/global/showdown-looms-over-cyprus-bailout-deal.html After Negotiations, Cyprus Agrees to a Euro Zone Bailout Package]The New York Times, 15 March 2013. Opinion polls indicated that the Christofias' government was largely perceived as responsible for the economic downturn,{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Δημοσκόπηση «Κ»: Φταίνε Χριστόφιας και Βγενόπουλος |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/dimoskopiseis/131859/?ctype=ar |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |last1=newsroom |last2=newmoney |first2=Ειδήσεις για την Οικονομία {{!}} |date=2013-04-28 |title=Φταίει η Κυβέρνηση Χριστόφια για την κρίση λένε 8 στους 10 σε δημοσκόπηση στην Κύπρο |url=https://www.newmoney.gr/roh/palmos-oikonomias/europi/10099-949-8-10/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Ειδήσεις για την Οικονομία {{!}} newmoney |language=en}} resulting in low approval ratings by the end of his term.{{Cite news |date=May 13, 2012 |title=6 out of 10 Cypriots have a negative opinion of Christofias |url=https://en.famagusta.news/news/6-10-2}}{{Cite web |date=2024-02-25 |title=Christodoulides' popularity plummets |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2024/02/25/christodoulides-popularity-plummets/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=cyprus-mail.com |language=en}}

The Democratic Rally capitalised on the prevailing dissatisfaction with the AKEL government, securing 34.3% of the votes in the 2011 legislative elections. Subsequent opinion polls suggested a strong likelihood of victory for the party in the 2013 presidential election.{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Δημοσκόπηση «Κ»: Μπροστά με 12 πλέον μονάδες ο Αναστασιάδης |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/dimoskopisi-k-mprosta-me-12-pleon-monades-o-anastasiadis |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2017-09-29 |title=Δημοσκόπηση για τις προεδρικές εκλογές |url=https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/el/article/politika/dimoskopisi-gia-tis-proedrikes-ekloges |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Stockwatch - Παράθυρο στην Οικονομία |language=el}}

File:Nicos Anastasiades, November 2022 (ABG GPO1).jpeg, former MP, President of DISY (1997-2013) and President of Cyprus (2013-2023).]]

An internal election was held within the Democratic Rally to select a candidate for the 2013 presidential election. The party president, Nikos Anastasiades won the election, receiving 86.7% of the votes, while his opponent, MEP Eleni Theocharous, received 13.3%.{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Ο Αναστασιάδης με 86,73% υποψήφιος του ΔΗΣΥ στις προεδρικές |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/81959/?ctype=ar |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}

Anastasiades campaigned on the public dissatisfaction with Christofias' handling of the economy, using the slogan "Crises need Leaders", in reference to the financial crisis.{{Cite web |last=Christophorou |first=Christophoros |date=January 2018 |title=Presidential elections in Cyprus |url=https://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/zypern/14906.pdf}}{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Η κρίση θέλει ηγέτη |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/apopseis/arthrografia/tasos-tryfonos/i-krisi-thelei-igeti |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}} He also received support from DIKO.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-13 |title=Αναστασιάδης ο |url=https://www.sigmalive.com/archive/news/politics/527319 |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.sigmalive.com}} In the first round of the election, Anastasiades secured 45.5% of the vote, nearly 20 percentage points ahead of AKEL-backed Stavros Malas.{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_elections_2013_81/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2013: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}} In the second round, Anastasiades won the presidency with 57.5% of the vote.{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_runoff_elections_2013_83/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2013 επαναληπτική εκλογή: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}} His majority government was a coalition of DISY, DIKO and the splinter EVROKO.{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Αναστασιάδης: «Θα είμαστε η Κυβέρνηση του λαού για το λαό» |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/121804/?ctype=ar |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Γιατί επιβάλλεται μια κυβέρνηση ευρύτερης δυνατής αποδοχής |url=https://simerini.sigmalive.com/article/2014/12/27/giati-epiballetai-mia-kubernese-euruteres-dunates-apodokhes/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Γιατί επιβάλλεται μια κυβέρνηση ευρύτερης δυνατής αποδοχής |language=en}}

Following Anastasiades' election, MP Averof Neofytou was elected as the new president of the Democratic Rally. Neofytou had previously served as Mayor of Polis (1992-1996) and as Minister of Communications and Works (1999-2003) in Clerides' administration.{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.cy/el/biographical-notes/neofytou-averof|title=ΝΕΟΦΥΤΟΥ Αβέρωφ|last=|first=|date=|website=www.parliament.cy|publisher=Βουλή των Αντιπροσώπων (Κύπρος)|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190707013119/http://www.parliament.cy/el/biographical-notes/neofytou-averof|archivedate=2019-07-07|accessdate=2019-07-05}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.averof.org.cy/index.php?id=2|title=Βιογραφικό - Αβέρωφ Νεοφύτου|last=|first=|date=|website=www.averof.org.cy|publisher=|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190707031213/http://www.averof.org.cy/index.php?id=2|archivedate=2019-07-07|accessdate=2019-07-07}}

Anastasiades inherited the 2012–2013 Cypriot financial crisis, forcing him to break his campaign promises and implement a strict banking bailout in collaboration with the European Union and the International Monetary Fund. The agreement, signed off by the Eurogroup, aimed to prevent the bankruptcy of Cyprus' main banks and avoid a potential euro exit.{{Cite web |date=2013-08-27 |title=Deposit haircut was Eurogroup's proposal: Anastasiades (Updated) |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2013/08/27/deposit-haircut-was-eurogroups-proposal-anastasiades/ |access-date=2019-04-22 |website=Cyprus Mail |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2019-07-16 |title=Eurogroup signs off on bailout agreement reached by Cyprus and troika {{!}} News {{!}} ekathimerini.com |url=http://www.ekathimerini.com/149669/article/ekathimerini/news/eurogroup-signs-off-on-bailout-agreement-reached-by-cyprus-and-troika |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190716130625/http://www.ekathimerini.com/149669/article/ekathimerini/news/eurogroup-signs-off-on-bailout-agreement-reached-by-cyprus-and-troika |archive-date=16 July 2019 |access-date=2024-01-21}} As a result of these broken promises, DIKO withdrew its support from the government, leading to the removal of its ministers from the cabinet.{{Cite news |date=27 February 2014 |title=Οριστική αποχώρηση ΔΗΚΟ από την κυβέρνηση της Κύπρου |url=https://www.skai.gr/news/world/oristiki-apoxorisi-diko-apo-tin-kyvernisi-tis-kyprou}}

During his first term, Anastasiades oversaw the closure of Cyprus Popular Bank,{{Cite news |last=Noonan |first=Laura |date=April 2, 2013 |title=Inside Laiki - Countdown to catastrophe |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSBRE9310GW/ |work=Reuters}} Cyprus Cooperative Bank{{Cite web |date=2019-02-13 |title=The slow death of the Cyprus Co-op Bank |url=https://www.thenews.coop/135627/sector/banking-and-insurance/slow-death-cyprus-co-op-bank/ |access-date=2024-01-22 |website=Co-operative News |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2018-07-12 |title=Investigation ordered into the downfall of the Cyprus Co-operative Bank |url=https://www.thenews.coop/130192/sector/banking-and-insurance/investigation-ordered-downfall-cyprus-co-operative-bank/ |access-date=2024-01-22 |website=Co-operative News |language=en-GB}} and Cyprus Airways.{{Cite web |title=Cyprus Airways closes down |url=https://www.cyprusprofile.com/articles/cyprus-airways-closes-down |access-date=2024-01-21 |website=www.cyprusprofile.com}}{{Cite web |date=2019-07-16 |title="Λουκέτο" στις Κυπριακές Αερογραμμές |url=https://www.zougla.gr/cyprus/article/louketo-stis-kipriakes-aerogrames |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190716132705/https://www.zougla.gr/cyprus/article/louketo-stis-kipriakes-aerogrames |archive-date=16 July 2019 |access-date=2024-01-21}} He also participated in critical negotiations regarding the Cyprus problem, including the Mont Pèlerin talks in November 2016{{Cite web |title=Η Οδύσσεια του Μον Πελεράν |url=https://simerini.sigmalive.com/article/2016/11/13/e-odusseia-tou-mon-peleran/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Η Οδύσσεια του Μον Πελεράν |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2016-11-20 |title=Κυπριακό: Δεύτερος γύρος διαπραγματεύσεων στο Μον Πελεράν |url=https://www.naftemporiki.gr/kosmos/1107107/kypriako-defteros-gyros-diapragmatefseon-sto-mon-peleran/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=www.naftemporiki.gr |language=el}} and the Crans-Montana talks in the summer of 2017.{{Cite web |date=2017-06-27 |title=Sun setting on chances of Cyprus deal |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/sun-setting-on-chances-of-cyprus-reunification-deal/ |access-date=2024-01-20 |website=POLITICO |language=en}}{{Cite journal |last=Morelli |first=Vincent L. |date=April 15, 2019 |title=Cyprus: Reunification Proving Elusive |url=https://sgp.fas.org/crs/row/R41136.pdf |journal=Congressional Research Service}} However, no agreement was reached between the two sides.{{Cite web |title=Πόλυς Πολυβίου: Γιατί ήταν λάθος του Προέδρου να φύγει από το Μοντ Πελεράν - Η προσωπική μου μαρτυρία |url=https://politis.com.cy/507272/politis-news/politiki/507272/polys-polyvioy-giati-itan-lathos-toy-proedroy-na-fygei-apo-to-mont-peleran-i-prosopiki-moy-martyria |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ}}{{Cite web |date=2022-07-31 |title='Missing minutes' of Crans-Montana meeting published {{!}} Cyprus Mail |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2022/07/31/missing-minutes-of-crans-montana-meeting-published/ |access-date=2024-01-20 |website=cyprus-mail.com/ |language=en-GB}}

File:Eleni Theocharous (cropped).jpg, former MP and MEP, founder and president of the splinter Solidarity Movement.]]

In November 2015, Eleni Theocharous, a two-term DISY MEP and paediatric surgeon who had contested Anastasiades for DISY's presidential nomination in 2013, announced her resignation from the party. She cited disagreements over DISY's stance on the Cyprus problem as the reason for her departure. Theocharous subsequently founded a new splinter party, the Solidarity Movement.{{Cite web |date=2015-11-21 |title=Theocharous leaves DISY, announces new movement (Updated) - Cyprus Mail Cyprus Mail |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2015/11/20/68892/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121170809/https://cyprus-mail.com/2015/11/20/68892/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2015-11-21 |access-date=2024-07-13 }}{{Cite web |date=2015-11-20 |title=Αποχώρησε από το ΔΗΣΥ η ευρωβουλευτής Ελένη Θεοχάρους |url=https://www.protothema.gr/politics/article/528995/apohorise-apo-to-disu-i-eurovouleutis-eleni-theoharous/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=ProtoThema |language=el}} In early 2016, the splinter party EVROKO, led by former DISY MP Demetris Syllouris, withdrew its support from Anastasiades' government and merged with Theocharous' Solidarity Movement ahead of the 2016 legislative election. This shift left Anastasiades with a minority government, supported solely by DISY.{{Cite web |title=Πολιτικό «Διαζύγιο»; - Αποχωρεί από το ΕΥΡΩΚΟ ο Νίκος Κουγιάλης - Επιλέγει την παραμονή του στην Κυβέρνηση {{!}} Offsite |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/eidiseis/politiki/politiko-diazygio-apohorei-apo-eyroko-o-nikos-koygialis-epilegei-tin-paramoni-toy |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.offsite.com.cy |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Αποφάσισαν συνένωση ΕΥΡΩΚΟ - "Αλληλεγγύη" |url=https://news.rik.cy/article/2016/3/11/apophasisan-sunenose-euroko-alleleggue-6523995/ |access-date=2024-07-13 |website=Αποφάσισαν συνένωση ΕΥΡΩΚΟ - "Αλληλεγγύη" |language=en}}

In the 2016 legislative election, DISY received 30.7% of the votes and secured 18 seats, a decrease from the 20 seats won in the previous election. Theocharous' splinter party, Solidarity Movement, which had absorbed Syllouris' EVROKO, gained 5.2% and won 3 seats.

During his second term, Anastasiades confronted significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Περιορισμοί στις μετακινήσεις πολιτών για παρεμπόδιση της εξάπλωσης του κορωνοϊού στην Κύπρο |url=https://mof.gov.cy/gr/%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%AF%CE%BF-%CF%84%CF%8D%CF%80%CE%BF%CF%85/%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%AF%CE%BF-%CF%84%CF%8D%CF%80%CE%BF%CF%85-%CF%85%CF%80%CE%BF%CF%85%CF%81%CE%B3%CE%BF%CF%8D/%CF%80%CE%B5%CF%81%CE%B9%CE%BF%CF%81%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%BC%CE%BF%CE%AF-%CF%83%CF%84%CE%B9%CF%82-%CE%BC%CE%B5%CF%84%CE%B1%CE%BA%CE%B9%CE%BD%CE%AE%CF%83%CE%B5%CE%B9%CF%82-%CF%80%CE%BF%CE%BB%CE%B9%CF%84%CF%8E%CE%BD-%CE%B3%CE%B9%CE%B1-%CF%80%CE%B1%CF%81%CE%B5%CE%BC%CF%80%CF%8C%CE%B4%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%B7-%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%82-%CE%B5%CE%BE%CE%AC%CF%80%CE%BB%CF%89%CF%83%CE%B7%CF%82-%CF%84%CE%BF%CF%85-%CE%BA%CE%BF%CF%81%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%BF%CF%8A%CE%BF%CF%8D-%CF%83%CF%84%CE%B7%CE%BD-%CE%BA%CF%8D%CF%80%CF%81%CE%BF |access-date=2024-01-23 |website=MINISTRY OF FINANCE}}{{Cite news |last=Kambas |first=Michele |date=January 8, 2021 |title=Cyprus goes into new lockdown from Jan 10 as COVID surges |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKBN29D1H5/ |work=Reuters}} and the consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which he condemened.{{Cite web |last=fm |date=2022-02-24 |title=Cyprus condemns attack on Ukraine |url=https://www.financialmirror.com/2022/02/24/cyprus-condemns-attack-on-ukraine/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Financial Mirror |language=en-GB}}{{Cite web |date=2024-01-26 |title=We unequivocally condemn the Russian invasion and call for withdrawal of troops from Ukraine, Anastasiades says |url=https://www.cna.org.cy/article/4597737 |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=ΚΥΠΕ}}{{Cite web |date=2022-05-24 |title=President: EU sanctions on Russia should not have bigger repercussions on member states |url=https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/en/article/eyropi-oikonomia/president-eu-sanctions-russia-should-not-have-bigger-repercussions-member |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=Stockwatch - All about the economy |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Anastasiades says Russia forced Cyprus to change |url=https://knews.kathimerini.com.cy/en/news/anastasiades-says-russia-forced-cyprus-to-change |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=knews.com.cy}} Despite these challenges, Anastasiades oversaw the implementation of the General Healthcare System{{cite news |date=5 April 2019 |title=The General Healthcare System (GHS, Greek: ΓεΣΥ (GeSY)) will be implemented as from the 1st of March 2019 |url=https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=3e0aa8c7-a0ff-4d0f-aa5c-56ccdf718738& |accessdate=8 July 2019 |publisher=Lexology}} and the establishment of a Minimum Wage.{{Cite web |date=2023 |title=Κύπρος: Στα 940 ευρώ ο κατώτατος μισθός – Σε ισχύ από χθες {{!}} Moneyreview.gr |url=https://www.moneyreview.gr/business-and-finance/international/99081/kypros-sta-940-eyro-o-katotatos-misthos-se-ischy-apo-chthes/ |access-date=2024-01-22 |website=www.moneyreview.gr}}

During his presidency, Nicos Anastasiades was involved in multiple corruption scandals, including the Pandora papers,{{cite web |date=3 October 2021 |title=Czech, Cypriot leaders named in massive offshore data leak |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/czech-cypriot-leaders-named-in-pandora-papers-offshore-data-leak/}} the Cyprus Confidential{{cite news |date=15 November 2023 |title=Cyprus Confidential: Leaked Roman Abramovich documents raise fresh questions for Chelsea FC: ICIJ-led investigation reveals how Mediterranean island ignores Russian atrocities and western sanctions to cash in on Putin's oligarchs |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/business/financial-services/2023/11/15/cyprus-confidential-leaked-roman-abramovich-documents-raise-fresh-questions-for-chelsea-fc/ |access-date=15 November 2023 |newspaper=The Irish Times |language=en}}{{cite web |date=14 November 2023 |title=Cyprus Confidential - ICIJ |url=https://www.icij.org/investigations/cyprus-confidential/ |access-date=14 November 2023 |website=www.icij.org}} and the trilogy of Makarios Drousiotis' political thrillers.{{Cite web |last=makarios.eu |title=Βιογραφικό |url=http://www.makarios.eu/cgibin/hweb?-A=10504&-V=euroelections |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=www.makarios.eu |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Θεοδώρου |first=Θεόδωρος |date=2023-01-03 |title=Μάταιος κόπος το να λες την αλήθεια |url=https://omegalive.com.cy/blogs/mataios-kopos-to-na-les-ten-alitheia/ |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=OmegaLive |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Κουρούσιη |first=Νικολέττα |date=2024-02-24 |title=Με Μακάριο Δρουσιώτη το πρώτο ψηφοδέλτιο του Volt για τις Ευρωεκλογές |url=https://www.philenews.com/politiki/article/1442281/me-makario-drousioti-to-proto-psifodeltio-tou-volt-gia-tis-evroekloges/ |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=Φιλελεύθερος {{!}} Philenews |language=el}} In 2024, Drousiotis' third publication, "Mafia State," instigated a criminal investigation against Anastasiades, prompting the involvement of international legal practitioner Gabrielle Louise McIntyre.{{Cite web |last=Δημητρίου |first=Άντρια |date=2024-02-17 |title=Η Αυστραλή ΜακΙντάιρ διερευνά τις καταγγελίες κατά Αναστασιάδη |url=https://www.philenews.com/politiki/article/1439712/i-makintair-dierevna-tis-katangelies-kata-anastasiadi/ |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=Φιλελεύθερος {{!}} Philenews |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Ξεκινούν την ερχόμενη εβδομάδα οι καταθέσεις για το «Κράτος Μαφία» (ΒΙΝΤΕΟ) {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/cyprus/xekinoyn-tin-erhomeni-ebdomada-oi-katatheseis-gia-kratos-mafia-binteo |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2024 |title=Cyprus to Probe Graft Allegations against Former President Nicos Anastasiades |url=https://www.occrp.org/en/daily/18488-cyprus-to-probe-graft-allegations-against-former-president-nicos-anastasiades |website=www.occrp.org |language=en-GB}}

File:Averof Neofytou 2022 cropped.jpg Averof Neofytou, President of DISY (2013-2023) and DISY's candidate for the 2023 presidential election.]]

In December 2021, the president of the Democratic Rally, Averof Neofytou, announced his candidacy for the 2023 presidential election, positioning himself as the official party nominee.{{Cite web |date=22 December 2021 |title=Κύπρος: Δεν διεκδικεί ο Αναστασιάδης την προεδρία - Υποψήφιος ο πρόεδρος του ΔΗΣΥ, Αβέρωφ Νεοφύτου |url=https://www.protothema.gr/greece/article/1194146/kupros-upopsifios-gia-tin-proedria-tis-dimokratias-o-proedros-tou-disu-averof-neofutou/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210103157/https://www.protothema.gr/greece/article/1194146/kupros-upopsifios-gia-tin-proedria-tis-dimokratias-o-proedros-tou-disu-averof-neofutou/ |archive-date=10 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=ProtoThema |language=el}} However, his candidacy was challenged by Nikos Christodoulides, Anastasiades' Minister of Foreign Affairs, who also expressed his intention to seek DISY's nomination.{{Cite web |title=Αβέρωφ Νεοφύτου:Ο Χριστοδουλίδης να σεβαστεί τους θεσμούς του κόμματος |url=https://news.rik.cy/article/2022/1/4/aberoph-neophutouo-khristodoulides-na-sebastei-tous-thesmous-tou-kommatos/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Αβέρωφ Νεοφύτου:Ο Χριστοδουλίδης να σεβαστεί τους θεσμούς του κόμματος |language=en}} Following accusations of undermining his campaign, Christodoulides resigned from his ministerial role and subsequently declared his independent candidacy for the 2023 presidential election.{{Cite web |date=2022-01-09 |title=Παραιτήθηκε ο ΥΠΕΞ και διεκδικεί την Προεδρία |url=https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/el/article/politika/paraitithike-o-ypex-kai-diekdikei-tin-proedria |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Stockwatch - Παράθυρο στην Οικονομία |language=el}}{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUzvln1RJbQ |title=Χριστοδουλίδης για Αβέρωφ: "Απαίτησε να παραιτηθώ αλλά δεν θέλω να φτάσουμε στα άκρα" |date=2022-10-23 |last=AlphaNews Live |access-date=2024-07-14 |via=YouTube}}{{Cite web |date=9 January 2022 |title=Κύπρος: Παραιτήθηκε από ΥΠΕΞ ο Νίκος Χριστοδουλίδης – Εκδήλωσε ενδιαφέρον για τις προεδρικές εκλογές | Η ΚΑΘΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ |url=https://www.kathimerini.gr/world/561661615/kypros-paraitithike-apo-ypex-o-nikos-christdoylidis-ekdilose-endiaferon-gia-tis-proedrikes-ekloges/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109103239/https://www.kathimerini.gr/world/561661615/kypros-paraitithike-apo-ypex-o-nikos-christdoylidis-ekdilose-endiaferon-gia-tis-proedrikes-ekloges/ |archive-date=9 January 2022 |access-date=13 January 2022 |website=www.kathimerini.gr}}

Nikos Christodoulides' independent candidacy created significant turmoil within the Democratic Rally. Averof Neofytou referred to Christodoulides as a "traitor," alleging that he sought to divide the party.{{Cite web |date=2023-02-09 |title=Χριστοδουλίδης: Όποιος μιλά για διάσπαση ΔΗΣΥ θα διαψευσθεί. Απάντηση στo «προδότης» |url=https://cyprustimes.com/proedrikes-ekloges-2023/christodoulidis-opoios-mila-gia-diaspasi-disy-tha-diapsefsthei-apantisi-sto-prodotis/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=cyprustimes.com |language=el}} DISY expelled Christodoulides from its party register and attempted to distance itself from him.{{cite web |date=5 January 2023 |title=Christodoulides struck from DISY party register |url=https://cyprus-mail.com/2023/01/05/christodoulides-struck-from-disy-party-register/ |access-date=6 February 2023 |website=cyprus-mail.com}}{{Cite web |title=Εκτός ΔΗΣΥ και με τη βούλα ο Χριστοδουλίδης και όσα μέλη τον στήριξαν |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2023/1/5/658982/ektos-desu-kai-me-te-boula-o-khristodoulides-kai-osa-mele-ton-sterixan/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Εκτός ΔΗΣΥ και με τη βούλα ο Χριστοδουλίδης και όσα μέλη τον στήριξαν |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Επιτελείο Αβέρωφ: "Ο αχταρμάς των κομμάτων που στηρίζουν Χριστοδουλίδη, δεν έχει ούτε αρχή, ούτε μέση, ούτε τέλος" |url=https://www.tothemaonline.com/Article/335647/epiteleio-aberwf-o-ahtarmas-twn-kommatwn-poy-sthrizoyn-hristodoylidh-den-ehei-oyte-arhh-oyte-mesh-oyte-telos |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210103158/https://www.tothemaonline.com/Article/335647/epiteleio-aberwf-o-ahtarmas-twn-kommatwn-poy-sthrizoyn-hristodoylidh-den-ehei-oyte-arhh-oyte-mesh-oyte-telos |archive-date=10 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=tothemaonline.com |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Διασταύρωσαν τα ξίφη τους οι τρεις βασικοί υποψήφιοι-Όσα έγιναν στο debate |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2022/10/5/671089/diastaurosan-ta-xiphe-tous-oi-treis-basikoi-upopsephioi-osa-eginan-sto-debate/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Διασταύρωσαν τα ξίφη τους οι τρεις βασικοί υποψήφιοι-Όσα έγιναν στο debate |language=en}} Despite this, Christodoulides, a prominent politician who secured official support from DIKO,{{Cite web |date=22 June 2022 |title=ΔΗΚΟ: Το Εκτελεστικό Γραφείο εισηγείται στην ΚΕ τη στήριξη Νίκου Χριστοδουλίδη |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/diko-ektelestiko-grafeio-eisigeitai-stin-ke-ti-stirixi-nikoy-hristodoylidi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713213533/https://www.alphanews.live/politics/diko-ektelestiko-grafeio-eisigeitai-stin-ke-ti-stirixi-nikoy-hristodoylidi |archive-date=13 July 2022 |access-date=23 June 2022 |website=www.alphanews.live}}{{Cite web |date=26 June 2022 |title=Και επίσημα στην κούρσα των προεδρικών το ΔΗΚΟ με Νίκο Χριστοδουλίδη |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/kai-episima-stin-koyrsa-ton-proedrikon-diko-me-niko-hristodoylidi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714132931/https://www.alphanews.live/politics/kai-episima-stin-koyrsa-ton-proedrikon-diko-me-niko-hristodoylidi |archive-date=14 July 2022 |access-date=26 June 2022 |website=www.alphanews.live}} EDEK,{{Cite web |date=13 July 2022 |title=Ομόφωνα στήριξη του Νίκου Χριστοδουλίδη αποφάσισε το Πολιτικό Γραφείο της ΕΔΕΚ |url=https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/498736/omofona-stirixi-toy-nikoy-christodoylidi-apofasise-to-politiko-gafeio-tis-edek |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713182037/https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/498736/omofona-stirixi-toy-nikoy-christodoylidi-apofasise-to-politiko-gafeio-tis-edek |archive-date=13 July 2022 |access-date=13 July 2022 |website=www.politis.com.cy}} DIPA,{{Cite web |date=15 October 2022 |title=Ο κύβος ερρίφθη - Με Χριστοδουλίδη η ΔΗΠΑ |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/proedrikes-2023/o-kybos-errifthi-me-xristodoylidi-i-dipa |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221015115609/https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/proedrikes-2023/o-kybos-errifthi-me-xristodoylidi-i-dipa |archive-date=15 October 2022 |access-date=15 October 2022 |website=www.kathimerini.com.cy}} and the DISY splinter party Solidarity Movement,{{Cite web |date=31 August 2022 |title=Στηρίζει Χριστοδουλίδη η Αλληλεγγύη |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/stirizei-xristodoylidi-i-allileggyi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220928074104/https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/stirizei-xristodoylidi-i-allileggyi |archive-date=28 September 2022 |access-date=15 October 2022 |website=www.kathimerini.com.cy}} led to a division among Democratic Rally voters. Early opinion polls indicated a near-even split among DISY supporters between Neofytou and Christodoulides.{{Cite web |title=Δημοσκόπηση Alpha: Η σταθερή πρωτιά Χριστοδουλίδη και η μάχη Αβέρωφ-Μαυρογιάννη {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/dimoskopisi-alpha-i-statheri-protia-hristodoylidi-kai-i-mahi-aberof-mayrogianni |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Δημοσκόπηση Alpha: Σταθερή πρωτιά για Χριστοδουλίδη, μικρή αύξηση για Αβέρωφ {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/dimoskopisi-alpha-statheri-protia-gia-hristodoylidi-mikri-ayxisi-gia-aberof |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}}{{Cite web |last=OmegaLive |date=2022-10-06 |title=Προεδρικές 2023: Tα αποτελέσματα της μεγάλης δημοσκόπησης του OMEGA |url=https://omegalive.com.cy/proedrikes/%CF%80%CF%81%CE%BF%CE%B5%CE%B4%CF%81%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%AD%CF%82-2023-t%CE%B1-%CE%B1%CF%80%CE%BF%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CE%AD%CF%83%CE%BC%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1-%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%82-%CE%BC%CE%B5%CE%B3%CE%AC%CE%BB%CE%B7%CF%82-%CE%B4%CE%B7%CE%BC%CE%BF%CF%83%CE%BA%CF%8C%CF%80%CE%B7%CF%83%CE%B7%CF%82-%CF%84%CE%BF%CF%85-omega/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=OmegaLive |language=en}}

Nikos Christodoulides used to be the absolute favourite to win the election, with approximately 50% of the public expressing support for him in May 2022, giving him a substantial 30-point lead over Averof Neofytou in the first round.{{Cite web |title=Δημοσκόπηση REPORTER: Η πρόθεση ψήφου Α γύρου, τα σενάρια του Β και το φαβορί |url=https://www.reporter.com.cy/proedrikes-2023/article/954023/dimoskopisi-reporter-i-prothesi-psifoy-a-groy-ta-senaria-toy-b-kai-to-fabori |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221225144549/https://www.reporter.com.cy/proedrikes-2023/article/954023/dimoskopisi-reporter-i-prothesi-psifoy-a-groy-ta-senaria-toy-b-kai-to-fabori |archive-date=25 December 2022 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=ΡΕΠΟΡΤΕΡ}} Despite a decline in popularity over time, he retained a 6-point lead in the latest opinion polls.{{Cite web |title=Οι "τρεις" στη ζυγαριά των αναποφάσιστων - Δημοσκόπηση Noverna για λογαριασμό του "Πολίτη" |url=https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/586507/politis-news/politiki/586507/oi-treis-sti-zygaria-ton-anapofasiston-dimoskopisi-noverna-gia-logariasmo-toy-politi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213035629/https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/586507/politis-news/politiki/586507/oi-treis-sti-zygaria-ton-anapofasiston-dimoskopisi-noverna-gia-logariasmo-toy-politi |archive-date=13 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ}} Throughout his campaign, Christodoulides was generally hesitant to criticise the 10-year administration of Nicos Anastasiades, often stating that his approach would focus on continuing successful policies while aiming to improve or abolish those that had not produced the desired outcomes.{{Cite web |title=Χριστοδουλίδης: Ούτε υποψήφιος της αντιπολίτευσης, ούτε ακολουθώ την πεπατημένη |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/hristodoylidis-oyte-ypopsifios-tis-antipoliteysis-oyte-akoloytho-tin-pepatimeni |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210103203/https://www.alphanews.live/politics/hristodoylidis-oyte-ypopsifios-tis-antipoliteysis-oyte-akoloytho-tin-pepatimeni |archive-date=10 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=AlphaNews.Live |language=el}}File:Christodoulides2019a.jpg, Spokesman of Anastasiades' Government (2014-2018), Minister of Foreign Affairs (2018-2022) and Independent President of Cyprus (2023 - present)]]Nicos Christodoulides announced his intention to form a national unity government, consisting of ministers from all political parties and free from political opposition.{{Cite web |title=Νίκος Χριστοδουλίδης: Κυβέρνηση Εθνικής Ενότητας το διακύβευμα της επόμενης μέρας (βίντεο) |url=https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/556730/politis-news/politiki/556730/nikos-christodoylidis-kyvernisi-ethnikis-enotitas-to-diakyvevma-tis-epomenis-meras-vinteo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213035618/https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/556730/politis-news/politiki/556730/nikos-christodoylidis-kyvernisi-ethnikis-enotitas-to-diakyvevma-tis-epomenis-meras-vinteo |archive-date=13 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ}} This proposal was promptly rejected by Averof Neofytou, who stated that the Democratic Rally would not participate in any government led by Christodoulides and, should DISY lose the election, the responsible course of action would be to respect the will of the electorate and assume a constructive role in opposition.{{Cite web |title=Αβέρωφ: Αν εκλεγεί ο Νίκος, ο ΔΗΣΥ θα είναι αντιπολίτευση {{!}} Offsite |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/eidiseis/politiki/aberof-eklegei-o-nikos-o-disy-tha-einai-antipoliteysi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210103210/https://www.offsite.com.cy/eidiseis/politiki/aberof-eklegei-o-nikos-o-disy-tha-einai-antipoliteysi |archive-date=10 February 2023 |access-date=10 February 2023 |website=www.offsite.com.cy |language=en}}

During the Democratic Rally's contentious presidential campaign, a significant portion of party members expressed support for Nikos Christodoulides.{{Cite web |title=Ξανά μέλη του ΔΗΣΥ όσοι στήριξαν Νίκο Χριστοδουλίδη {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/xana-meli-toy-disy-osoi-stirixan-niko-hristodoylidi |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}} There were even allegations that President Nicos Anastasiades was covertly undermining Averof Neofytou's candidacy in favor of Christodoulides.{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2023-04-29 |title=Συνέδριο ΔΗΣΥ: Προσπάθεια Αναστασιάδη να αντικρούσει τα περί υπόσκαψης του Αβέρωφ {{!}} Dialogos |url=https://dialogos.com.cy/synedrio-disy-prospatheia-anastasiadi-na-antikroysei-ta-peri-yposkapsis-averof/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Κάθονται μαζί για να ξορκίσουν τις σκιές Αναστασιάδης και Αβέρωφ |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2022/11/2/667657/kathontai-mazi-gia-na-xorkisoun-tis-skies-anastasiades-kai-aberoph/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Κάθονται μαζί για να ξορκίσουν τις σκιές Αναστασιάδης και Αβέρωφ |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=21 December 2022 |title=Νέες παρενέργειες προκαλεί στην υποψηφιότητα Αβέρωφ ο Αναστασιάδης |url=https://politis.com.cy/570155/article}} This internal division intensified, leading influential figures, including former parliamentary candidates Pantelis Poietis and Konstantinos Letybiotis,{{Cite web |date=2021-03-01 |title=Ο Κωνσταντίνος Λετυμπιώτης απαντά σε ερωτήσεις πολιτών, βίντεο |url=https://pafoslive.com.cy/%ce%bf-%ce%ba%cf%89%ce%bd%cf%83%cf%84%ce%b1%ce%bd%cf%84%ce%af%ce%bd%ce%bf%cf%82-%ce%bb%ce%b5%cf%84%cf%85%ce%bc%cf%80%ce%b9%cf%8e%cf%84%ce%b7%cf%82-%ce%b1%cf%80%ce%b1%ce%bd%cf%84%ce%ac-%cf%83%ce%b5/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Pafos Live |language=el}} to resign from DISY and endorse Christodoulides.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-09 |title=Άρχισαν να εγκαταλείπουν τον ΔΗΣΥ και τον Αβέρωφ και να στηρίζουν τον Χριστοδουλίδη: Αποχώρησε και ο υποψήφιος βουλευτής Παντελής Ποιητής… |url=https://hellasjournal.com/2022/09/archisan-na-egkatalipoun-ton-disi-ke-ton-averof-na-stirizoun-ton-christodoulidi-apochorise-ke-o-pantelis-piitis/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Hellasjournal.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=editor |first=aftodioikisi |date=2022-08-08 |title=Κωνσταντίνος Λετυμπιώτης: Παραιτήθηκε από το Πολιτικό Γραφείο του ΔΗΣΥ και στηρίζει Χριστοδουλίδη |url=https://www.aftodioikisi.com.cy/%CE%BA%CF%89%CE%BD%CF%83%CF%84%CE%B1%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%AF%CE%BD%CE%BF%CF%82-%CE%BB%CE%B5%CF%84%CF%85%CE%BC%CF%80%CE%B9%CF%8E%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%82-%CF%80%CE%B1%CF%81%CE%B1%CE%B9%CF%84%CE%AE%CE%B8%CE%B7/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=aftodioikisi |language=en}}

Averof Neofytou finished third in the first round of the election, receiving 26.1% of the votes, the lowest share in the history of the Democratic Rally.{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_elections_2023_154/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2023: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}} This outcome marked the first instance in which a DISY candidate did not advance to the second round of a presidential election.{{Cite web |title=Πρώτη φορά στην ιστορία μένει εκτός Β΄γύρου ο ΔΗΣΥ {{!}} Offsite |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/eidiseis/politiki/proti-fora-stin-istoria-menei-ektos-bgyroy-o-disy |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.offsite.com.cy |language=en}} In the second round, DISY opted not to endorse any candidate officially, although several prominent party members expressed their support.{{Cite web |date=2023-02-09 |title=Κύπρος: Ο β' γύρος των προεδρικών εκλογών «τριχοτόμησε» τον ΔΗΣΥ |url=https://www.protothema.gr/politics/article/1338029/kupros-o-v-guros-ton-proedrikon-eklogon-trihotomise-ton-disu/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=ProtoThema |language=el}} Notable endorsements for Nikos Christodoulides came from President Nicos Anastasiades, Education Minister Prodromos Prodromou, former Health Minister Constantinos Ioannou, and Parliamentary Spokesperson Nicos Tornaritis. In contrast, AKEL-backed Andreas Mavroyiannis received backing from Averof Neofytou, Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulidis, and former MP Kaiti Clerides, the daughter of party founder Glafkos Clerides.

The second round of the election resulted in an equal division among the DISY electorate between Andreas Mavroyiannis and Nikos Christodoulides, the latter of whom was viewed by some, including Averof Neofytou, as a "renegade".{{Cite web |last=root |date=2023-02-12 |title=Κυπριακές εκλογές: Η ακτινογραφία της ψήφου στον δεύτερο γύρο |url=https://www.ot.gr/2023/02/12/epikairothta/kypriakes-ekloges-i-aktinografia-tis-psifou-ston-deytero-gyro/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Οικονομικός Ταχυδρόμος - ot.gr |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2023-02-13 |title=Εκλογολόγος αναλύει το αποτέλεσμα Κυριακής. «Αποδυνάμωση 2 μεγάλων κομμάτων» |url=https://cyprustimes.com/proedrikes-ekloges-2023/eklogologos-analyei-to-apotelesma-kyriakis-apodynamosi-2-megalon-kommaton/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=cyprustimes.com |language=el}} Nikos Christodoulides ultimately won the election with 52.0% of the vote in the second round,{{Cite web|url=http://results.elections.moi.gov.cy/greek/presidential_runoff_elections_2023_157/islandwide|title=Προεδρικές Εκλογές 2023 επαναληπτική εκλογή: Επίσημα Αποτελέσματα}} incorporating a faction of DISY members into his government.{{Cite web |title=O ΔΗΣΥ αναζητεί τον ρόλο του ως αντιπολίτευση |url=https://politis.com.cy/640226/apopseis/stiles/640226/o-disy-anazitei-ton-rolo-toy-os-antipolitefsi |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ}}{{wide image|Split of DISY Voters in the First Round of the 2023 Cypriot Presidential Elections.png|400px|Chart demonstrating how voters who supported DISY in the 2021 Cypriot legislative election cast their votes in the 2023 presidential election.}}

File:Annita Demetriou visits Ireland, June 2023 01 (cropped).jpg Annita Demetriou, President of the Democratic Rally (2023-present) and President of the House of Representatives (2021-present).|left]]Following the defeat in the 2023 presidential election and the internal divisions resulting from Nikos Christodoulides' independent candidacy, three politicians announced their intention to run for the presidency of the Democratic Rally. Averof Neofytou, seeking a third term, was set to compete against former Minister of Finance Harris Georgiadis and MP Demetris Demetriou.{{Cite web |title=Αβέρωφ, Δημητρίου, Χάρης στη μάχη για την Προεδρία του ΔΗΣΥ {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/aberof-vs-dimitrioy-erotimatiko-o-haris-ektos-o-noyris |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}} However, to prevent further conflicts, both Neofytou and Georgiadis withdrew their candidacies and endorsed Annita Demetriou, the President of the House of Representatives, as a unity candidate.{{Cite news |date=20 February 2023 |title=Έτοιμη για την προεδρία του ΔΗΣΥ η Αννίτα, μόνο αν αποσυρθεί ο Αβέρωφ |url=https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/596819/etoimi-gia-tin-proedria-toy-disy-i-annita-mono-an-aposyrthei-o-averof}}{{Cite web |date=2023-02-21 |title=Αποσύρεται ο Αβέρωφ και υποστηρίζει Αννίτα! |url=https://balla.com.cy/2023/02/aposyretai-o-averof-kai-ypostirizei-annita/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |date=21 February 2023 |title=Τέλος εποχής για τον Αβέρωφ: Απέσυρε υποψηφιότητα με τις λέξεις «αξιοπρέπεια, ευθύνη, ενότητα» |url=https://politis.com.cy/politis-news/politiki/597236/telos-epochis-gia-ton-averof-epivevaiose-aposyrsi-me-axioprepeia-efthyni-enotita}}{{Cite web |last=Nicolaou |first=stephanie |date=2023-02-21 |title=Υποβολή υποψηφιότητας κατέθεσε η Αννίτα Δημητρίου |url=https://ekloges.disy.cy/ypovoli-katathese-annita-dimitriou/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=ΔΗΣΥ |language=el}} Annita Demetriou, recognised for her strong reputation and broad multi-party acceptance,{{Cite web |title=Αννίτα και πάσης Κύπρου - «Μακαριακά» ποσοστά σε έρευνα για την πρόεδρο του ΔΗΣΥ |url=https://politis.com.cy/659847/politis-news/politiki/659847/annita-kai-pasis-kyproy-makariaka-pososta-se-erevna-gia-tin-proedro-toy-disy |access-date=2024-05-21 |website=ΠΟΛΙΤΗΣ}}{{Cite web |last=Δημητριάδη |first=Ραφαέλα |date=2024-03-10 |title=ΔΗΜΟΣΚΟΠΗΣΗ «Φ»: Πρώτη με διαφορά η Αννίτα – Στεφάνου και Περδίκης με θετικό πρόσημο |url=https://www.philenews.com/politiki/article/1447208/dimoskopisi-f-proti-me-diafora-i-annita-stefanou-ke-perdikis-me-thetiko-prosimo/ |access-date=2024-05-21 |website=Φιλελεύθερος {{!}} Philenews |language=el}} ultimately defeated Demetris Demetriou, winning the presidency of DISY with 69.2% of the votes.{{Cite web |last=OmegaLive |date=2023-03-11 |title=Εκλογές ΔΗΣΥ: Σαρωτική νίκη Αννίτας - Τα ποσοστά |url=https://omegalive.com.cy/politikh/ekloges-desu-sarotiki-nike-annitas-ta-pososta/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=OmegaLive |language=en}}

Despite the party's official stance as 'responsible opposition',{{Cite web |title=Αννίτα Δημητρίου: Ο ΔΗΣΥ θα παραμείνει σοβαρή και υπεύθυνη αντιπολίτευση |url=https://news.rik.cy/article/2023/9/10/annita-demetriou-o-desu-tha-parameinei-sobare-kai-upeuthune-antipoliteuse/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Αννίτα Δημητρίου: Ο ΔΗΣΥ θα παραμείνει σοβαρή και υπεύθυνη αντιπολίτευση |language=en}} many view DISY's role as ambiguous and uncertain. A substantial number of Christodoulides' ministers are active members of DISY, and the party has shown significant support for the president in parliament. A notable example is the 2024 National Budget, where DISY made fewer amendments than the governing parties.{{Cite web |title=ΔΗΣΥ - 'υπεύθυνη αντιπολίτευση': Έκανε πιο λίγες τροπολογίες απ' ότι η συγκυβέρνηση… {{!}} Offsite |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/apopseis/efetis/disy-ypeythyni-antipoliteysi-ekane-pio-liges-tropologies-ap-oti-i-sygkybernisi |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.offsite.com.cy |language=en}} This perceived balancing act has led to public dissatisfaction with the party's role as opposition to the unpopular Christodoulides administration.{{Cite web |title=Δημοσκόπηση REPORTER: Comme ci comme ça συμπολίτευση και αντιπολίτευση στα μάτια των πολιτών |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2023/9/27/734052/demoskopese-reporter-comme-ci-comme-ca-sumpoliteuse-kai-antipoliteuse-sta-matia-ton-politon/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=Δημοσκόπηση REPORTER: Comme ci comme ça συμπολίτευση και αντιπολίτευση στα μάτια των πολιτών |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=3 March 2024 |title=ΔΗΜΟΣΚΟΠΗΣΗ «Φ»: Στο κόκκινο η αξιολόγηση του Προέδρου Χριστοδουλίδη – Κατρακυλάει η δημοτικότητά του (πίνακες) |url=https://www.philenews.com/politiki/article/1444765/dimoskopisi-f-sto-kokkino-i-axiologisi-tou-proedrou-christodoulidi-katrakilai-i-dimotikotita-tou/}}

In preparation for the 2024 European Parliament Election, DISY carried out an internal election to choose its six candidates. Nine personalities announced their interest for the election, with former Health Minister Michalis Hatzipantelas emerging as the top candidate.{{Cite web |last=Aftodioikisi |date=2024-02-02 |title=Εννέα υποψήφιοι στον ΔΗΣΥ για τις Ευρωεκλογές 2024 |url=https://www.aftodioikisi.com.cy/%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%BD%CE%AD%CE%B1-%CF%85%CF%80%CE%BF%CF%88%CE%AE%CF%86%CE%B9%CE%BF%CE%B9-%CF%83%CF%84%CE%BF%CE%BD-%CE%B4%CE%B7%CF%83%CF%85-%CE%B3%CE%B9%CE%B1-%CF%84%CE%B9%CF%82-%CE%B5%CF%85%CF%81%CF%89/ |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=aftodioikisi |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Ο ΔΗΣΥ ανακοίνωσε τους έξι υποψήφιους Ευρωβουλευτές του |url=https://economytoday.sigmalive.com/oikonomia/kypros/76320_o-disy-anakoinose-toys-exi-ypopsifioys-eyrovoyleytes-toy |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=Economy Today |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Με ανατροπή τα αποτελέσματα για το ψηφοδέλτιο του ΔΗΣΥ στις Ευρωεκλογές-Ποιοι έκοψαν το νήμα |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2024/2/10/758387/me-anatrope-ta-apotelesmata-gia-to-psephodeltio-tou-desu-stis-euroekloges-poioi-mpainoun-sto-psephodeltio/ |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=Με ανατροπή τα αποτελέσματα για το ψηφοδέλτιο του ΔΗΣΥ στις Ευρωεκλογές-Ποιοι έκοψαν το νήμα |language=en}}

Marios Pelekanos, one of the three vice presidents of the Democratic Rally, finished second to last in the internal election and was not included in the list of six nominees. Pelekanos expressed profound dissatisfaction and subsequently resigned from his position within the party leadership, citing a series of underlying events that had undermined his standing.{{Cite web |last=Δημητριάδη |first=Ραφαέλα |date=2024-02-12 |title=Παραιτήθηκε από Αντιπρόεδρος του ΔΗΣΥ ο Μάριος Πελεκάνος – «Η αξιοπρέπειά μου δεν μου επιτρέπει να συνεχίσω» |url=https://www.philenews.com/sizitiete/article/1437666/paretithike-apo-antiproedros-tou-disi-o-marios-pelekanos-i-axioprepia-mou-den-mou-epitrepi-na-sinechiso/ |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=Φιλελεύθερος {{!}} Philenews |language=el}}{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Παραιτήθηκε από Αντιπρόεδρος του ΔΗΣΥ ο Μάριος Πελεκάνος |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/paraitithike-apo-antiproedros-toy-disy-o-marios-pelekanos |access-date=2024-03-21 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}} After multi-day discussions with ELAM, on March 22, 2024, it was announced that he would run in the European Elections as a candidate of the ultranationalist party. The leader of DISY, Annita Demetriou, harshly condemned this move, and the centre-right party proceeded by deleting Pelekanos from its register, emphasising the vast differences in politics between the two parties.{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Στο ΕΛΑΜ ο Πελεκάνος - Η διαγραφή από τον ΔΗΣΥ και η αιχμηρή απάντηση Αννίτας |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/ekleise-o-marios-pelekanos-%E2%80%93-ypopsifios-eyroboyleytis-me-elam |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Το παρασκήνιο της υποψηφιότητας Πελεκάνου με το ΕΛΑΜ {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/paraskinio-tis-ypopsifiotitas-pelekanoy-me-elam |access-date=2024-03-22 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}} Marios Pelekanos, who had also held the position of government spokesperson in Anastasiades' administration from 2021 to 2023, became the Press Representative of ELAM{{Cite web |title=Καθήκοντα Εκπροσώπου Τύπου του ΕΛΑΜ αναλαμβάνει ο Πελεκάνος {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/kathikonta-ekprosopoy-typoy-toy-elam-analambanei-o-pelekanos |access-date=2024-07-14 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}}

Despite numerous challenges, including the candidacy of Marios Pelekanos with ELAM, Eleni Theocharous (leader of the splinter Solidarity Movement) with DIKO,{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Ελένη Θεοχάρους στην «Κ»: Θα είμαι υποψήφια στις ευρωεκλογές με το ΔΗΚΟ |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/eleni-theoxaroys-stin-k-tha-eimai-ypopsifia-stis-eyroekloges-me-to-diko |access-date=2024-03-23 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2024-03-08 |title=Οι 6 του ΔΗΚΟ για Ευρωεκλογές. Στο ψηφοδέλτιο Θεοχάρους και Κωστρίκης |url=https://cyprustimes.com/politiki/oi-6-tou-diko-gia-evroekloges-sto-psifodeltio-theocharous-kai-kostrikis/ |access-date=2024-03-23 |website=cyprustimes.com |language=el}} and Pantelis Poietis (former DISY MP candidate) with DIPA,{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Παντελής Ποιητής: Παραιτείται από ΔΗΣΥ και στηρίζει Χριστοδουλίδη |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/pantelis-poiitis-paraiteitai-apo-disy-kai-ypostirizei-xristodoylidi |access-date=2024-04-04 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Παντελής Ποιητής συζητείται για ευρωψηφοδέλτιο ΔΗ.ΠΑ |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/pantelis-poiitis-syziteitai-gia-eyropsifodeltio-di-pa |access-date=2024-04-04 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite news |date=3 April 2024 |title=Αυτοί είναι 6 υποψήφιοι Ευρωβουλευτές της ΔΗΠΑ - Βιογραφικά και Φωτογραφίες |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/politiki/ekloges-2024/aytoi-einai-6-ypopsifioi-eyroboyleytes-tis-dipa-biografika-kai-fotografies |work=Offsite News}} as well as many corruption scandals from Anastasiades' administration{{Cite web |last=IRPI |first=OCCRP and |title=Bank Records Link President of Cyprus to 'Troika Laundromat' |url=https://www.occrp.org/en/troikalaundromat/bank-records-link-president-of-cyprus-to-troika-laundromat |access-date=2019-08-30 |website=OCCRP |language=en}}{{cite web |date=19 October 2020 |title=Τον πρόεδρο Αναστασιάδη αγγίζουν τα "χρυσά" διαβατήρια |url=https://www.documentonews.gr/article/ton-proedro-anastasiadh-aggizoyn-ta-xrysa-diabathria}}{{Cite news |date=2019-10-23 |title=Cyprus to probe how Cambodian elite obtained EU passports |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cambodia-hunsen-wealth-cyprus-idUSKBN1X21BJ |access-date=2019-11-04 |work=Reuters |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Dalby |first=Chris |date=2019-10-21 |title=Money Laundering May Have Fueled Luxury US Lifestyle of Hugo Chavez's Daughter |url=https://www.insightcrime.org/news/brief/maria-gabriela-chavez-money-laundering-us/ |access-date=2019-11-08 |website=InSight Crime |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2024-01-26 |title='Cyprus Confidential' implicates Anastasiades, service providers in illicit financial transactions |url=https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/local/cyprus-confidential-implicates-anastasiades-service-providers-in-illicit-financial-transactions/ |access-date=2024-01-26 |website=in-cyprus.philenews.com |language=en-US}} and widespread dissatisfaction with DISY's role as the main opposition in Christodoulides' government, the centre-right party managed to achieve another first-place finish, maintaining its two seats in the European Parliament. However, the 24.8% of the popular vote is the worst result in the party's history, significantly lower than the 29% in the 2019 election and the 37.8% in the 2014 election.{{Cite web |title=Μια πύρρειος νίκη για τον ΔΗΣΥ και οι αμείλικτοι αριθμοί που δείχνουν ήττα-Η διπλή ανάγνωση του αποτελέσματος |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2024/6/11/780114/kategrapse-to-khamelotero-pososto-apo-to-2000-apolese-8000-psephous-ekhase-tous-megalous-demous-alla-nikese-o-desu/ |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=Μια πύρρειος νίκη για τον ΔΗΣΥ και οι αμείλικτοι αριθμοί που δείχνουν ήττα-Η διπλή ανάγνωση του αποτελέσματος |language=en}}

In a podcast on July 8, 2024, former President Nicos Anastasiades criticised Averof Neofytou's campaign for the 2023 presidential elections, suggesting that his detachment from the sentiments of DISY supporters contributed to the party's defeat. Anastasiades also questioned Neofytou's perceived alignment with the AKEL-backed candidate, Andreas Mavroyiannis, in the second round of the election.{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Βολές Αναστασιάδη σε Αβέρωφ: «Δεν θέλω να ασχολούμαι με πικραμένους» |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/boles-anastasiadi-se-aberof-den-thelo-na-asxoloymai-me-pikramenoys |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}{{Cite web |title=Αναστασιάδης VS Αβέρωφ: Το podcast που άναψε φωτιές και η αναφορά σε «πικραμένο» {{!}} AlphaNews.Live |url=https://www.alphanews.live/politics/anastasiadis-vs-aberof-podcast-poy-anapse-foties-kai-i-anafora-se-pikrameno |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=www.alphanews.live |language=el}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-09 |title=Αναστασιάδης για Αβέρωφ: «Δεν θέλω να ασχολούμαι με πικραμένους» |url=https://cyprustimes.com/politiki/anastasiadis-gia-averof-den-thelo-na-ascholoumai-me-pikramenous/ |access-date=2024-09-06 |language=el}}

Anastasiades' remark, "I don't want to bother with bitter people", directed at Averof Neofytou, elicited a strong response from Neofytou on Twitter. Neofytou responded by stating that those who are "bitter" are the thousands who once trusted Anastasiades, along with broader criticisms of Anastasiades' handling of the Cyprus problem.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-09 |title=Απάντηση Αβέρωφ σε Αναστασιάδη: «Πικραμένοι είναι οι χιλιάδες που σ’ εμπιστεύτηκαν κάποτε» |url=https://cyprustimes.com/politiki/apantisi-averof-se-anastasiadi-pikramenoi-einai-oi-chiliades-pou-s-ebisteftikan-kapote/ |access-date=2024-09-06 |language=el}}{{Cite news |date=9 July 2024 |title=Σκληρή απάντηση Αβέρωφ σε Αναστασιάδη: «Πικραμένοι είναι οι χιλιάδες που σ’ εμπιστεύτηκαν κάποτε…» |url=https://www.philenews.com/politiki/article/1488338/skliri-apantisi-averof-se-anastasiadi-pikrameni-ine-i-chiliades-pou-s-empisteftikan-kapote/}}

File:Assets_gallery_4225_59957.jpg, hosted by President Anastasiades at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia in 2022.]]

The Great Sea Interconnector is a planned HVDC interconnector between the Greek, Cypriot, and Israeli power grids via the world’s longest submarine power cable.{{cite news |last1=Kambas |first1=Michele |date=2012-01-23 |title=Cyprus group plans Greece-Israel electricity link |url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/electricity-mediterranean-cable-idAFL5E8CN25B20120123 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306104604/http://uk.reuters.com/article/electricity-mediterranean-cable-idAFL5E8CN25B20120123 |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 6, 2016 |access-date=2012-03-09 |work=Reuters |quote=A Cyprus-based group including Greece's state-controlled power utility PPC said on Monday it planned to lay the world's longest subsea power cable linking Europe and Asia.}}{{Cite web |title=EuroAsia Interconnector Project and Progress |url=http://www.euroasia-interconnector.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/EuroAsia_Interconnector_Project_and_Progress_English.pdf |work=euroasia-interconnector.com}} The project has received support from the Democratic Rally. However, in late August 2024, Averof Neofytou expressed opposition to advancing any energy projects before resolving the Cyprus problem, and he questioned whether the interconnection will actually reduce energy bills in Cyprus. This stance led to a conflict with DISY President Annita Demetriou, who has strongly supported the project.{{Cite web |title=Σύγκρουση Αννίτας – Αβέρωφ για τον Great Sea Interconnector {{!}} Offsite |url=https://www.offsite.com.cy/eidiseis/politiki/sygkroysi-annitas-aberof-gia-ton-great-sea-interconnector |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=www.offsite.com.cy |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2024-08-28 |title=Συνδέει ζητήματα ενέργειας με το Κυπριακό ο Αβέρωφ – Τοποθέτηση μετά τη συζήτηση στη Βουλή |url=https://cyprustimes.com/politiki/syndeei-zitimata-energeias-me-to-kypriako-o-averof-topothetisi-meta-ti-syzitisi-sti-vouli/ |access-date=2024-09-06 |language=el}} Averof Neofytou, along with Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis, remains among the only two DISY MPs opposing the interconnection, which has been primarily developed during the presidency of Nicos Anastasiades.{{Cite news |date=6 September 2024 |title=Έμειναν μόνοι στον ΔΗΣΥ Αβέρωφ – Χατζηγιάννης |url=https://www.philenews.com/oikonomia/kafti-grammi/article/1505255/eminan-moni-ston-disi-averof-chatzigiannis/}}

In September 2024, when asked whether Averof Neofytou could again be the party's candidate for the 2028 presidential election—following his expressed interest—Annita Demetriou responded that Neofytou had already been tested in 2023, and respecting the public's verdict, DISY should now move forward for the good of the country.{{Cite web |title=«Δεν κοιμάμαι και ξυπνώ για το 2028»-Με σπόντες για Αβέρωφ τοποθετήθηκε η Αννίτα για τις Προεδρικές |url=https://reporter.com.cy/article/2024/9/11/795176/den-koimamai-kai-xupno-gia-to-2028-me-spontes-gia-aberoph-topothetetheke-e-annita-gia-tis-proedrikes/ |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=«Δεν κοιμάμαι και ξυπνώ για το 2028»-Με σπόντες για Αβέρωφ τοποθετήθηκε η Αννίτα για τις Προεδρικές |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Solutions |first=BDigital Web |title=Αννίτα για Προεδρικές Εκλογές - «Δεν κοιμάμαι και ξυπνώ για το 2028» |url=https://www.kathimerini.com.cy/gr/politiki/annita-gia-proedrikes-ekloges-den-koimamai-kai-xypnw-gia-to-2028 |access-date=2024-09-14 |website=Kathimerini.com.cy |language=el}}

In the legislative elections of 21 May 2006, the party won 30.52% of the popular vote and 18 out of 56 available seats, and in the legislative elections of 22 May 2011, the party won 34.27% of the popular vote and 20 out of 56 available seats.{{cite web | last1= | first1= | last2= | first2= | title=Republic of Cyprus — Parliamentary Elections 22 May 2011 — OSCE/ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Final Report | url=https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/f/c/82242.pdf | date=7 September 2011 | work=Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe | access-date=12 June 2021}} The party's candidate, Nicos Anastasiades, won the 2013 presidential elections, ending five years of rule by the Progressive Party of Working People (AKEL).{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/feb/24/cyprus-votes-new-president|title=Greek Cypriots elect Nicos Anastasiades as president|date=February 24, 2013|website=the Guardian}} In the legislative elections of 2016, the party won 30.68%, taking 18 seats in the parliament and remaining the party with the largest representation.{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cyprus-election-idUSKCN0YD0R4|title=Cyprus parliamentary vote puts far-right in parliament|first=Michele|last=Kambas|newspaper=Reuters |date=May 22, 2016|via=www.reuters.com}}

• Reduction of military conscription in Cyprus

{{reflist}}

• {{Cite book |author=Neophytos Loizides |title=Transformations of the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot Right: Right-wing Peace-makers? |work=Beyond a Divided Cyprus: A State and Society in Transformation |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan |year=2012 |pages=185–201 |isbn=9780230338548}}

• {{Official website}}
• [http://www.nedisy.org Nedisy.org], Youth branch

{{Cypriotic political parties}}

{{International Democrat Union}}

{{European People's Party}}

Category:Political parties established in 1976

Category:1976 establishments in Cyprus

Category:Christian democratic parties in Europe

Category:International Democracy Union member parties

Category:Liberal conservative parties

Category:Political parties in Cyprus

Category:Member parties of the European People's Party

Category:Pro-European political parties in Cyprus