Nicosia, Cyprus. An investigation has been opened into the tourism ministry’s permanent secretary, Neophytos Papadopoulos, after the cabinet approved a request by Deputy Minister Kostas Koumis to place him on temporary leave. The request concerning Papadopoulos’ availability from his duties is due to be decided by the public service committee next Thursday.
Temporary leave request
The request was forwarded following cabinet approval. According to news outlet Reporter, the dispute stems from concerns raised by the deputy minister over alleged lack of cooperation and delays in responding to administrative instructions.
Legal challenge planned
Papadopoulos’ lawyer, Chris Triantafyllides, said he intends to challenge the decision in court, arguing that the constitutional basis of deputy ministries is unlawful and that decisions taken under their authority should be annulled.
He questioned the legitimacy of Koumis’ role in initiating disciplinary action, stating that the legal framework underpinning the structure of deputy ministries is under review.
Constitutional issues raised
In a statement, Triantafyllides said the case raises constitutional issues.
“The creation of deputy ministries and the appointment of deputy ministers is unconstitutional,” he said, adding that previous attempts to raise the matter in court were not adjudicated on substantive grounds.
He argued that proceedings in earlier cases were discontinued in order to avoid judicial examination of the constitutional question.
He also said the current process could now bring the issue before the Supreme Court.
“This is the opportunity many expected for the court to rule on the unconstitutionality of the creation of deputy ministries and by extension the appointment of deputy ministers,” he said.