Government criticizes DISY for blocking European Affairs Ministry extension

The Cypriot government has expressed disappointment following the decision of the Democratic Rally (DISY) party to reject an urgent legislative proposal. The proposal aimed to extend the mandate of the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Marilena Raouna, by six months. Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that the legislative change involved only a technical date adjustment, shifting a deadline from July 31, 2026, to December 31, 2026. DISY officials argued that the urgency of the procedure did not allow for sufficient time to study the bill. Letymbiotis characterized this reasoning as a pretext, alleging that the party sacrificed national interests for the sake of opposition tactics. Furthermore, the government criticized the stance taken by the DISY spokesperson, who suggested that the Deputy Ministry itself might be unnecessary. The administration emphasized that such a body is essential for managing critical European negotiations and handling the ongoing Cyprus issue.