fidias panayiotou — Fidias Panayiotou, leader of Direct Democracy Cyprus, has defended his party’s decision to support Annita Demetriou for the role of House president, asserting that their philosophy is not about “throwing eggs and rocks at the wall.” In a recent social media broadcast, Panayiotou addressed the questions and concerns he has faced following the vote, stating that the focus should be on collaboration rather than opposition.
During the televised interview, Panayiotou reflected on his previous experiences as a member of the European Parliament, where he felt ignored while voicing dissent. He emphasised that now, as a parliamentary member, he aims to work constructively with others to tackle societal issues.
“Direct Democracy Cyprus faced a dilemma,” he explained. “With the election results putting us in a position of influence, we recognised that we could either support Demetriou or Diko leader Nicholas Papadopoulos, both of whom were viable candidates for the presidency.”
Panayiotou detailed that his party’s vote was a strategic move, as isolating themselves would hinder their ability to effect change. He pointed out that his party extended its hand to all other political entities, while others remained divided on their choices.
“We consulted all parties involved and laid out our key policy suggestions,” he stated. He underscored that the electorate had chosen Demetriou’s party, Disy, as the leading force in the recent elections, making it essential to respect that decision. “Now, we wait to see if our proposed policies will be implemented,” he added.
The policies he proposed include significant financial support for families, improved pensions for retirees, and a commitment to building 10,000 new homes. In a video released alongside Demetriou, they discussed these initiatives together, with the House president affirming the feasibility of these plans.
Demetriou highlighted the importance of supporting pensioners, especially those with lower and medium-sized pensions, declaring that a monthly allowance of €1,088 should be a guaranteed right for those who have contributed to the social insurance fund. She also addressed the housing crisis, stating that the construction of new homes must occur swiftly, ideally within a three to four-year timeframe.
As the conversation turned towards education and foreclosure issues, both leaders emphasised the necessity of government support for those in genuine need. “We are here to build bridges and ensure the welfare of all Cypriots,” Demetriou remarked.
The collaboration between Panayiotou and Demetriou has not been without its critics. Papadopoulos, the leader of Diko, later refuted claims that he was also involved in filming a video with Panayiotou, suggesting that Panayiotou’s intentions were misrepresented. He mentioned that Panayiotou had sought to create a video with President Nikos Christodoulides instead, a request that was ultimately declined.
