Government moves to replace Cyta board member following conflict of interest concerns

On August 6, 2026, the Council of Ministers of Cyprus appointed a new Board of Directors for the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority (Cyta), chaired by Maria Tsiakka. Among the members appointed was Loizos Oikonomidis, an IT graduate and vice president of the PASE-ATHK union. The appointment immediately triggered public backlash and intense criticism from other trade unions, including ASET-Cyta, citing institutional incompatibility and a clear conflict of interest.

Specifically, critics highlighted that Oikonomidis’s spouse is a Cyta employee, a situation restricted by Law 149/1988 regarding public entity appointments. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding his active role in the union and his position on the pension fund committee. While the PASE-ATHK union defended the appointment, arguing it provided necessary employee representation, government officials, including Deputy Government Spokesman Giannis Antoniou, confirmed on August 7 that Oikonomidis will be replaced. Reports indicate that Oikonomidis failed to disclose his familial ties to the organization during the application process. The government has characterized the move as a matter of good governance, and the issue is expected to be addressed at the next cabinet meeting and within the Parliamentary Committee on Institutions.