Nikos Sykas files lawsuit against DISY over parliamentary ballot exclusion

Limassol MP Nikos Sykas has initiated legal action against the Democratic Rally (DISY) following the Political Bureau's decision to exclude him from the party's ballot for the May 2026 parliamentary elections. The lawsuit, filed on February 13, seeks to declare the exclusion illegal and restore Sykas to the candidate list without requesting financial compensation. A request for an interim injunction was also filed to prevent the DISY Supreme Council from ratifying the final ballot on February 28. The party's leadership, headed by Annita Demetriou, maintains its position, citing a zero-tolerance policy regarding allegations of domestic violence involving the MP. While the initial complaint against Sykas was reportedly withdrawn by his partner, a criminal investigation regarding physical and psychological abuse remains active. The court has scheduled a hearing for February 17, where DISY's legal counsel, Chris Triantafyllides, is expected to present the party's objection. A judicial decision on the temporary injunction is anticipated by February 28, the same day the party's governing body is set to meet for final candidate validation. Party insiders suggest that even a favorable court ruling might not guarantee Sykas a place on the ballot, while the party considers stricter measures if the lawsuit fails.