EDITOR’S NOTE (Nick Stamatakis):  This is a rare moment for all of us, observers of Greek and Cypriot politics.  Contemplating someone’s political ambitions and fortunes, we are usually quick to identify hidden motives and underground foreign connections.  As Cyprus foreign minister Nikos Christodoulides announced yesterday his run for President of Cyprus we have nothing negative to say for a true stand-up guy, a well-educated, experienced, and straightforward statesman – except to congratulate him and wish him all the best in his political efforts.  Yes, for once Cyprus and Greece stand to truly benefit from the possible ascent to power OF A TRUE PATRIOT!!

Good luck Niko!! The Greek-American community will be fully supporting you!!

==============================================

Cyprus foreign minister quits amid presidential run tussle

Cyprus’ foreign minister has resigned his post amid swirling speculation over his intention to run for president of the east Mediterranean island nation next year that he said undermined the work of his ministry and that of the government

NICOSIA, Cyprus — Cyprus’ foreign minister announced his resignation on Sunday amid swirling speculation over his intention to run for president of the east Mediterranean island nation next year that he said undermined the work of his ministry and that of the government.Nikos Christodoulides told reporters that he offered his resignation to President Nicos Anastasiades “several days ago” and that it was only accepted on Friday. Christodoulides’ last day in office will be Monday, when he is scheduled to hold talks with his Kuwaiti counterpart.

The reference pointed an indirect finger of blame at party leader Averof Neophytou, who harbors his own presidential ambitions. Neophytou last week called out Christodoulides to make clear his intentions, effectively challenging him to a one-on-one race for the DISY leadership which would, in turn, anoint the party’s presidential candidate.

Christodoulides, who served as foreign minister since March 2018 and was government spokesman for five years prior to that, has consistently ranked as one the most popular politicians in the country in numerous public opinion polls.

He said his candidacy would aim to forge a broad base of support from across the political spectrum including his own party, but he insisted that being a party leader was not a pre-requisite for a run at the presidency.

“These kinds of approaches serve those who invest in polarization and fanaticism and aren’t commensurate with modern democracies and values. I’m sorry, but I won’t follow that course,” Christodoulides said.

1 COMMENT

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here