President Nikos Christodoulides has decided to follow Glafcos Clerides’ approach to government reshuffles, refusing to act under pressure whilst keeping ministers on alert as speculation mounts over potential changes in September.
“I will not carry out any reshuffle under pressure” is the message emanating from the west wing of the Presidential Palace, responding to questions about when the President of the Republic will proceed with refreshing the government formation.
Nikos Christodoulides has decided to adopt Glafcos Clerides’ formula regarding reshuffles. This specific formula, applied by the fourth President of the Republic and copied by his successors, stipulates that firstly, no government reshuffle is decided and implemented under anyone’s pressure, and secondly, the reshuffle will occur at a moment when no one expects it.
Through this specific formula, what is primarily sought is to ensure the President of the Republic maintains the initiative. On one hand, keeping at a distance those attempting to impose their own positions, and on the other, keeping his ministers alert.
This was largely how Nikos Christodoulides had acted during the first mini-reshuffle in January 2024. Although there was intense speculation about a reshuffle, he ultimately proceeded with decisions and announcements in a manner that surprised many.
The unknown nature of President Christodoulides’ moves keeps all government members alert but simultaneously causes them anxiety. Some appear to already feel insecure about their presence in the government formation.
Various names have begun circulating in ministry corridors, becoming a topic of discussion regarding their political superiors. Similar discussions in the past had a negative impact on decision advancement and government work implementation.
Lists have begun circulating about changes in the government formation. Based on circulating scenarios, it would not be an exaggeration to say that the only person retained in his position is the President of the Republic, along with two or three ministers considered immovable from their positions.
References are being made to movements from the Hill to ministries and deputy ministries, departures of existing ministers with the addition of new ones to their positions, and role changes.
It appears President Christodoulides’ plans have been modified following the catastrophic fire in mountainous Limassol.
His intentions were different before the fire, according to sources, showing he takes this specific event into account without meaning that ministers whose services were directly or indirectly involved in the issue will find themselves outside the government formation.
The first 20 days of September will be a critical period. On Friday, approximately half the Council of Ministers will be in Parliament for continued discussion about the catastrophic fire in mountainous Limassol.
The customary Council of Ministers session at the Troodos country residence will take place within the first ten days of September, featuring a lengthy review of government work.
President Christodoulides’ trip to New York for the General Assembly in the third week of September serves as a milestone, leaving approximately ten days for decision-making and potential announcements.
An additional factor may be the American experts’ report examining the fire’s causes and relevant services’ behaviour, expected within the first fortnight of September.
