Party leaders argue over President's decision to invite Turkish Minister

Recent tensions have emerged between the Cypriot government and its supporting parties over President Nikos Christodoulides's handling of the Cyprus issue, exposing deeper internal fractures within these parties amid the summer lull.

The Democratic Party (DIKO), the largest party supporting Christodoulides, faces internal strife over its lack of influence on the national issue. A call by DIKO MPs Christos Orphanides, Pavlos Mylonas, and Zacharias Koulias for a meeting of the party's Central Committee to address recent developments has gone unanswered, with party leaders apparently taking advantage of the summer break.

During a lengthy July 1 meeting of the Central Committee, members expressed a desire for fundamental changes in how the party functions and communicates. However, these discussions have yet to materialize into action, with uncertainty surrounding whether a Political and Constitutional Congress will be held this fall or postponed until 2025.

DIKO leader Nicholas Papadopoulos has remained silent on the government's actions regarding the Cyprus issue, seemingly to avoid further conflicts and perhaps to buy time for internal regrouping. Despite this, DIKO has reiterated its support for Christodoulides, although prominent members have voiced frustrations over bearing the brunt of criticism aimed at the government.

The Democratic Alignment (DIPA) maintains a clearer stance, aligning closely with President Christodoulides's policies on the Cyprus issue and publicly supporting him. DIPA leaders advocate for improved communication with the presidency, especially following a meeting on February 9 where better collaboration methods were discussed but failed to yield significant results.

DIPA President Marios Garoyian has reportedly kept in frequent contact with Christodoulides, discussing ongoing issues and providing updates. However, some party leaders express dissatisfaction with learning about developments through the media rather than directly from the government.

The Movement for Social Democracy (EDEK) continues to express disagreement with Christodoulides's handling of the Cyprus issue, particularly criticizing his consent to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s participation in an informal EU Foreign Ministers' meeting without clear commitments. EDEK also laments the lack of direct communication from the presidency and is pushing for a National Council meeting to discuss the situation.

Despite public concerns, EDEK has no plans to withdraw its support for Christodoulides, citing pre-election commitments. However, some party members believe this stance should be reconsidered to address internal dissatisfaction and strengthen the party’s position.

As the government and its supporting parties navigate these disputes, the Cyprus issue remains a contentious topic, revealing the fragile unity among those backing President Christodoulides.

[Summary of Oriana Papantoniou's original story in Greek published in Kathimerini's Cyprus edition]