Disy’s Limassol branch defends embattled MP Sykas

Disy’s Limassol branch issued a firm defence of the presumption of innocence regarding MP Nikos Sykas after his exclusion from the election ballot over an allegation of domestic violence.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the branch said it condemned violence “unequivocally, without exceptions”, but stressed that judgment belongs solely to the justice system and not to public opinion or what it described as “the court of public opinion”.

While acknowledging the political considerations behind the decision taken by Disy’s political bureau to omit Sykas from the ballot, the branch warned against attempts by “organised groups and individuals” to exploit the case in order to harm the party.

“Respecting the principle that every person is innocent until proven guilty, we refuse to participate in any attempt to undermine his dignity and that of his family,” the statement affirmed, while also commending Sykas’ work for the local community.

The intervention comes as Sykas prepares a possible appeal to the supreme court, challenging his removal from the ballot.

His lawyer Christos Pourgourides has argued that the decision breached basic principles of justice, saying it was taken without first hearing his client and amounted to a political misuse of the court’s ruling to lift parliamentary immunity.

Disy’s leadership has maintained that its decision reflects a zero-tolerance stance on violence against women, even while formally respecting the presumption of innocence.

Party leader and House president Annita Demetriou has said that “violence of any kind is incompatible” with Disy’s values and justified the move as a matter of principle rather than guilt.

The case stems from an allegation made by Sykas’ partner concerning an incident in Greece which took place over the New Year period.

Although the complaint was later withdrawn, the Supreme Court unanimously lifted Sykas’ immunity, allowing police to continue their investigation.

Authorities have said the withdrawal does not automatically halt criminal proceedings.