''Roll up your sleeves'': Christodoulides tells new ministers to get to work

Cyprus’ new Cabinet officially took the reins Monday, and President Nikos Christodoulides had a clear message: roll up your sleeves, stay sharp, and get ready for some tough work.

The new ministers include Michalis Damianos as Energy Minister, Marinos Mousiouttas as Labor Minister, Konstantinos Fytiris as Justice Minister, Neophytos Charalambides as Health Minister, and Klea Hatzistefanou Papaellina as Deputy Minister of Social Welfare. Marios Hartsiotis was named Commissioner for the Presidency.

Christodoulides told the new team that they are taking over at a particularly demanding time, with “significant challenges” ahead as the country pushes for reforms. He also reminded them that Cyprus is about to assume the presidency of the EU Council, a role that will put the island in the European spotlight.

The president urged ministers to be fully informed on all matters in their portfolios, use the expertise of their staff, and listen closely to citizens’ concerns. “Serve the public interest on the basis of legality, act with transparency, and adhere strictly to the code of ethics,” he said.

Energy Minister Michalis Damianos, speaking for the new Cabinet, pledged that the team wants to be judged on transparency, democracy, and merit. “We are ready to make difficult decisions for the good of the country, even if they carry political costs,” he said.

As the ministers take office, the message is clear: Cyprus’ new Cabinet is stepping onto the national and European stage, facing high expectations and no shortage of challenges.