**Angelides Declines Deputy Tourism Minister Role Amid DISY Discontent Over Cabinet Reshuffle**
Christos Angelides has reportedly declined the position of deputy tourism minister, a role offered by President Nikos Christodoulides as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle that has ignited significant backlash within the Democratic Rally (DISY) party. Angelides, who currently serves as the director general of the hotelier’s association, Pasyxe, was approached to take over the tourism portfolio from Costas Koumis but opted to reject the offer.
The proposed reshuffle has led to intensified criticism from DISY members, particularly regarding the president's efforts to incorporate party figures into the government despite DISY's decision to remain in opposition. Vice President Yiannis Karousos expressed concern over the potential appointments, emphasizing that those approached should honor the support of their constituents and the party's stance. “We want him to leave us alone,” Karousos stated, warning that if the president proceeded with appointing DISY members, the party would respond decisively.
This sentiment was echoed by DISY President Annita Demetriou, who commented on the reshuffle during a press briefing. She remarked that “everyone is judged by their actions” when asked about the potential appointments of Angelides and Tina Pavlou, who has also been mentioned as a candidate for the health ministry. Demetriou urged for clarity on the reshuffle to enable the government to focus on pressing public concerns, asserting that mere changes in personnel would not suffice without effective governance.
Local media reports indicate that Health Minister Neophytos Charalambides is resistant to a proposed move to the transport ministry, while Diko leader Nicholas Papadopoulos has expressed dissatisfaction with the number of cabinet positions allocated to his party. Reports suggest that Christodoulides had intended to appoint former Diko MP Christos Senekkis to the agriculture ministry and Evi Tsolaki as deputy welfare minister, although Papadopoulos is advocating for an additional ministry for Diko.
The cabinet reshuffle, which was anticipated to be announced last week, remains pending as discussions continue regarding the final configuration of the government. It is expected that Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades and Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou will depart from their roles, while Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou is set to resign before transitioning to an educational position later this year.
As the political landscape evolves, the ongoing tensions between the president and DISY highlight the complexities of coalition governance in Cyprus. The situation remains fluid, with both the president and party leaders navigating the delicate balance of political alliances and public expectations.