President Nikos Christodoulides announced a cabinet reshuffle on Tuesday featuring limited surprises, strengthening the presence of coalition partner Democratic Party (DIKO) within the government while keeping several key ministers in their posts.
The appointments mark the end of weeks of speculation over potential major changes to the administration. Under the new lineup, former Democratic Rally (DISY) candidate Tina Pavlou takes over as deputy welfare minister, replacing Clea Papaellina. Papaellina shifts to the deputy culture ministry to succeed Vasiliki Kassianidou.
DIKO secured two new ministerial appointments to bolster its influence in the executive branch. DIKO member Evanthia Tsolaki replaces Alexis Vafeades as minister of transport, communications and works, while former DIKO MP Christos Senekis succeeds Maria Panayiotou as minister of agriculture, rural development and environment.
The presidency confirmed that Neofytos Charalambides remains as health minister, and Costas Koumis retains his post as deputy tourism minister following a failed attempt to replace him with Christos Angelides.
Changes were also made to commissioner roles. Former EDEKMP Elias Myrianthous replaces Antonia Theodosiou as commissioner for the environment and animal welfare.
Irene Poyiatzi becomes citizen’s commissioner, succeeding Panayiotis Palates, who moves into the vacant role of director of the President’s Press Office following the resignation of Charalambos Charalambous.
The official swearing-in ceremony for the new appointees will take place at the presidential palace at 9:30 am on August six.
