Fidias Panayiotou, leader of Direct Democracy of Cyprus, used a television appearance on Sigma to defend his movement's positions and philosophy, responding to criticism over his political experience, his party's policy stances, and recent statements on the Cyprus problem and foreign investment in property.
Panayiotou argued that the political establishment and the media are attacking Direct Democracy because they fear its growing appeal. He said he faces intense criticism on social media on a daily basis and believes his party is held to a stricter standard than the traditional parties.
On political fragmentation and coalitions
Responding to concerns that more small parties entering parliament would create instability, Panayiotou argued the opposite: that it would lead to greater cooperation and compromise. He cited countries with multi-party systems, such as the Netherlands, as examples.
He acknowledged that there had been a lack of experience at the start of his political career but stressed that he and his team had acquired significant knowledge through their time in the European Parliament. On a specific incident in which he was criticised for not knowing the details of a parliamentary vote, he explained that he had been just days away from his wedding at the time, while maintaining that his team had voted correctly on matters relating to European funding for Cyprus and specifically for Famagusta.
Foreign investment and property prices
Panayiotou's statements on foreign investors purchasing property in Cyprus drew particular attention. He clarified that his concern is not limited to Israeli investors but extends to third-country nationals more broadly, including Russians and Ukrainians. He argued that corporate structures are being used to circumvent legal restrictions, resulting in large concentrations of land and property in foreign hands.
He said this practice contributes to rising property and rental prices, making it increasingly difficult for Cypriot citizens. He proposed restrictions on property purchases by foreign investors, allowing only limited acquisitions for primary residence or productive investment purposes.
Panayiotou also acknowledged that his party has not yet developed comprehensive positions on all issues, explaining that as a new political movement it is focusing primarily on the key problems affecting citizens.
Direct democracy and social policy
On the philosophy underpinning his movement, Panayiotou argued that the central goal is for citizens to play a more active role in decision-making rather than being limited to casting a vote every five years. On social policy questions such as adoption by same-sex couples or the death penalty, he said the final decision should be reached through consultation with society, while making clear that he personally does not support capital punishment.
On the Cyprus problem, Panayiotou said his experience in the European Parliament led him to conclude that Turkey is pursuing a gradual strategy to increase its influence over Cyprus, first through the promotion of a two-state solution and subsequently through some form of confederation. He stressed that his movement's fundamental red line is that Ankara must not acquire control over the Republic of Cyprus.
