Agriculture Minister Maria Panagiotou is keeping her cards close to her chest regarding her future in the government and in light of an upcoming cabinet reshuffle.

“When there is something to announce, I’ll be happy to discuss it.”

Speaking on the Alpha News program, she reiterated that it is up to the President of the Republic to decide whether or not she will continue in her current portfolio and emphasized that her ongoing efforts remain in the best interest of the citizens. She acknowledged that the criticism leveled by politicians and citizens sometimes “goes too far” and stated that she is open to proposals and suggestions for resolving problems in the primary sector.

“Our drive and commitment have been here every day since the very first day we took over, taking the reins of the respective ministry. Whether it’s for one day, 100 days, or 1,000 days. We work with the same passion and enthusiasm every hour and every day that we are here.”

When asked about her acceptance of the appointment to Secondary Education, Ms. Panagiotou explained that it came about following a request for deferment, to which those on the list of appointees are entitled—a list she has been on since 2004.

“We request what we are entitled to; the Education Service says yes or no and then gives you the option to remain on the list or not. That was my intention as well.”

READ ALSO: Hannides Reveals: The Backstory Behind Anastasiou’s Resignation and the Message to the President Regarding the Cabinet Reshuffle

Regarding her position as a member of EDEK, Ms. Panayiotou stated that she is closely monitoring developments within the party and described “regrettable” that the party is not represented in the House of Representatives, based on the results of last May’s elections.

“Cyprus, the Republic of Cyprus, has lost out because EDEK is not currently represented in Parliament. You understand that there is a group, elected by EDEK, that speaks, consults, and debates as EDEK on other issues as well.”

What matters to me, he emphasized, is the implementation of the governance program to which EDEK has contributed from the very beginning.

“I do not agree that any party participating in the government incurs a cost. On the contrary, citizens benefit first and foremost because the governance program is being implemented and the quality of life—which was the goal—is improving. And the numbers and indicators speak for themselves.”

READ ALSO: New problem for EDEK following Anastasiou’s resignation; when will the party hold its electoral convention?

READ ALSO: “Knives are being sharpened”: Anastasiou leaves EDEK with a bang