Loizos Oikonomides is set to be replaced as a member of Cyta’s Board of Directors following objections over his appointment, informed sources said. The wider operation of the Advisory Council responsible for assessing candidates for semi-government organisations will also come under parliamentary scrutiny in September.
Oikonomides, who was appointed by the Council of Ministers on Thursday, is vice-president of the PASE ATIK trade union. His wife is also employed by Cyta, prompting objections, particularly from trade unions within the organisation.
Failure to disclose Cyta connection
According to the Cyprus News Agency, the government intends to replace Oikonomides because, when expressing his interest in the position, he did not disclose that his wife was employed by Cyta.
Government sources said similar action had been taken in previous cases in which comparable issues arose. The matter is considered inconsistent with principles of good governance.
A decision on the person who will replace Oikonomides is expected at the next meeting of the Council of Ministers.
Advisory Council to face parliamentary scrutiny
House Institutions Committee chair Dimitris Dimitriou announced on X that the committee would examine the operation of the Advisory Council following the latest appointments to semi-government organisations.
He referred specifically to the issue surrounding the Cyta appointment, as well as reports that some individuals had been appointed despite not submitting applications.
Dimitriou told CNA that the matter would be formally registered on 2 September and discussed either on 9 or 16 September.
The committee’s discussion will examine the Advisory Council’s broader procedures, regardless of Oikonomides’ replacement.
Source: CNA.
