**Vassiliou Instructs Former Driver to Report for New Duties Amid Security Overhaul**
Former first lady Androulla Vassiliou has directed the police officer who served as her driver to report to police headquarters on Monday for reassignment. This decision comes as part of a broader reform of state security arrangements initiated by Justice Minister Costas Fitiris, aimed at optimizing police resources and ensuring that security measures are aligned with current risk assessments.
In a statement, Vassiliou expressed her intent to support the justice ministry's efforts rather than hinder its reforms. "Because I sincerely want to help the justice ministry implement its decisions and save public money, I have instructed the officer I have had since my husband’s death to report to police headquarters on Monday to receive instructions for his new post," she said.
The announcement follows Vassiliou's recent comments during a television appearance on Sigma TV, where she described the decision to end her police protection as "odd," while emphasizing her respect for the ruling. She clarified that the officer had never been utilized for personal matters, stating, “For private events, I didn’t use the police,” and noted that the officer's role was primarily to accompany her to diplomatic functions and official engagements.
Vassiliou is among several high-profile individuals affected by the recent changes in security protocols, which also impact former House presidents Demetris Syllouris and Yiannakis Omirou. The reforms transfer the responsibility for assessing security risks from the cabinet to the police security committee, following a legal opinion from the service. This shift aims to ensure that police protection is provided only when a documented risk assessment indicates a necessity.
The justice ministry has stated that all existing security arrangements are currently under review, with assessments scheduled to occur every six months or sooner if circumstances change. "Police guarding is a security measure and is provided where an objective risk assessment documents its necessity," the ministry noted. It also indicated that protection would be "terminated or changed accordingly" if the need is not substantiated.
The overhaul of security measures follows a review ordered in June, which was influenced by changes in parliamentary representation after the May elections. This political shift has resulted in a reevaluation of security arrangements for various political figures, including former first lady Elsi Christofias, who has also lost her assigned officer under the new guidelines.
As the justice ministry continues to implement these reforms, Vassiliou's decision to comply with the new directives reflects her commitment to supporting the government's efforts to streamline security resources while addressing the needs of public safety and fiscal responsibility.