Nicosia, Cyprus. One month after Charalambos Charalambous resigned as President Nikos Christodoulides’ chief of staff, the government has not named a successor, with senior officials temporarily covering the role.
Appointment still pending
Government sources said on Friday that Christodoulides has not moved to expedite a new appointment to one of the most important posts at the presidential palace, adding that the responsibilities are being handled internally “so that the work of the presidency is not affected in any way”.
Christodoulides said public speculation is “respected” but does not influence his decisions. “I am not affected, when I make decisions, I will announce them,” he said.
Resignation followed video allegations
Charalambous stepped down on January 12, four days after a covertly filmed video was published on the social media platform X alleging discussions about campaign financing and donations linked to access and influence.
Charalambous denied wrongdoing and said he resigned to protect institutions and the presidency. In his resignation statement, he said his participation was being “exploited through deliberate falsifications and selective excerpts” and that he would not accept “the slightest shadow” being cast on his honesty.
“I will not allow my presence in government to be turned into a tool of exploitation aimed at harming the Republic of Cyprus or the president,” he said.
President’s response
Christodoulides publicly backed the resignation, describing it as “an act of self-confidence and trust”, while saying he has “nothing to fear” and that investigations should proceed without political interference.
What do you think should be the priorities for the next chief of staff at the presidential palace?