Last week, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides changed his government a lot. Five new ministers officially started their jobs this Monday. These changes are for important areas like Justice, Energy, and Health. People think this is a smart move. This is because Cyprus will soon lead the Council of the European Union.
Several important people left their jobs. Marios Hartsiotis moved from Justice Minister to Presidential Commissioner. Constantinos Fitiris is the new Justice Minister. He is one of the new faces. Michalis Damianos is the new Energy Minister. Marinos Mousiouttas is the new Labour Minister. Neophytos Charalambides is the new Health Minister. Klea Hatzistefanou Papaellina is the new Deputy Minister of Social Welfare. The former Energy Minister and Deputy Minister have left the government.
Experts believe the changes have reasons. The president says it is to bring new energy. However, the timing is important because of the EU presidency. This role needs good teamwork. The changes also help the president's political friends. Their members got new jobs. This prepares for future political tests and elections. The main opposition parties are not in the government.
President Christodoulides told the new ministers their jobs are important. He said they are starting "at a difficult time." He mentioned national and international duties. The new Justice Minister, Constantinos Fitiris, agreed. He said it is a time "filled with challenges." He will focus on safety and the legal system.
The new ministers have set clear goals. The Energy Minister wants more openness. He will prepare for tough energy decisions. The government is in a time of change. It needs to manage the transition well. It also needs to prepare for its important European role. How this new cabinet handles local and international issues will be a big test.