Government Spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis has renewed his criticism of DISY over the dispute surrounding the proposed appointment of Marilena Raouna, directly targeting party spokesman Onoufrios Koullas.
In a social media post, Letymbiotis accused DISY of presenting conflicting arguments and called on party president Annita Demetriou to publicly state whether Koullas’ comments reflected the party’s official position.
Letymbiotis questions DISY’s position
Letymbiotis said he was surprised by what he described as the language used by the DISY spokesman, arguing that it was inconsistent with the history and institutional responsibility of the party.
“Instead of substance, labels and personal disparagement are being employed,” he wrote.
He said the central question remained unanswered, noting that DISY had previously argued that it voted against the proposal because it disagreed with the urgent parliamentary procedure and had not been given sufficient time to examine a change concerning a date.
“Today, the party’s spokesman says that no organised structure for European affairs is needed at all,” Letymbiotis said.
“They should first agree among themselves.”
Reference to DISY’s 2013 election programme
The government spokesman recalled that the establishment of a deputy ministry for “more effective representation in the European institutions” had formed part of DISY’s election programme ahead of the 2013 presidential election.
“What has changed now?” he asked.
Defence of Raouna’s record
Letymbiotis also criticised what he described as the personal disparagement of a woman with strong qualifications, European experience, a proven record and international recognition.
He said Cyprus’ successful Presidency had been acknowledged by European partners and the country’s political forces only days earlier, adding that the government remained particularly proud of that recognition.
“Political disagreement is legitimate,” he said. “However, the language chosen by the DISY spokesman diminishes political discourse in a way that is offensive and institutionally unacceptable.”
Call for Annita Demetriou to respond
Letymbiotis said DISY President Annita Demetriou should now publicly clarify whether she endorsed the arguments and approach adopted by Koullas.
“Is this the party’s official position?” he asked, adding that silence would itself amount to a political response.
He concluded by saying that opposition pursued solely for political purposes was far removed from a constructive approach and did not honour a political party with a long tradition of political civility.
