The government spokesperson responds to those who are upset about the government’s cooperation with political parties, while speculation about a cabinet reshuffle continues.

Speaking on the Alpha Kalimera program, Government Spokesperson Konstantinos Letympiotis reiterates that the President of the Republic will exercise this constitutional right himself the moment and if he decides that there needs to be a change in the people serving alongside him.

“What I can tell you from our perspective is that all members of the cabinet whom we work with on a daily basis are subject to evaluation by the President of the Republic; at least that is the principle by which we operate, and of course, above and beyond that, the President of the Republic himself is subject to daily evaluation by society. Beyond that, I believe he will evaluate the situation himself; it is his exclusive constitutional right, and if and when he chooses to do so, he will exercise it, and it will be announced at the appropriate time.”

When asked to comment on the demands made by DIKO, Mr. Letympiotis noted that the Democratic Party is a key partner in the government and is now the only coalition party represented in Parliament.

“Without in any way overlooking the significant contribution that both the Democratic Bloc and—regardless of whether they participate in the Council of Representatives or not—and without in any waythe contribution of parliamentary parties that do not support the government—consultation, debate, and cooperation with it are a given—as in any government—so that the government’s policies can move forward and be implemented.”

When asked who might be part of the cabinet aside from DIKO, which supports the government, and what “openings” there are for other parties, he replied:

“Anyone who is upset upon hearing the government spokesperson of any government say that there must be cooperation between the executive and legislative branches, regardless of whereeach political force stands, for the good of the country, I think they should redefine their own priorities, because it seems that those who are upset by this statement do not prioritize the good of the country but rather seek to define themselves in opposition to and automatically take a stance against any government policy simply and solely for the sake of opposing any government policy.”

“One’s party identity or party affiliation cannot be the sole criterion; you cannot overlook a person’s field of expertise, their abilities, intentions, and ability to contribute to their community—all so that they can be utilized or offer more than just the position of a minister,” he continues.