Legal Challenge Looms Over Deputy Ministries in Cyprus
In a move that could have significant implications for the Cypriot government structure, prominent lawyer Christos Clerides has signaled his intent to question the constitutionality of deputy ministries in court. Clerides expressed his concerns publicly, stating that the establishment of deputy ministries stands on shaky legal ground as they are not explicitly defined within the country’s constitution.
Clerides argues that the President’s power to appoint deputy ministers is not granted by the constitution, which delineates specific presidential powers that exclude such appointments. He asserts that the executive authority should be exercised by the cabinet and its ministers, and by extending roles to deputy ministries, there is an overreach that disrupts the balance of constitutional powers.
The current administration under President Nikos Christodoulides has continued the practice initiated by his predecessor, Nicos Anastasiades, of creating deputy ministries. These include portfolios for research, social welfare, culture, shipping, tourism, and most recently, European affairs. The latter was established in January with Marilena Raouna taking the inaugural position of deputy minister.
Despite parliamentary approval for a seventh deputy ministry focused on migration issues, skepticism about its legality has been voiced by Doros Polykarpou, executive director of the non-governmental organization Kisa. Polykarpou echoes Clerides’ concerns, questioning the locus of political power when deputy ministers lack the authority to vote on government policies within the cabinet.
Polykarpou also critiques the effectiveness of existing deputy ministries, challenging their impact on improving government services and efficiency. He cites the social welfare deputy ministry as an example where the anticipated benefits have not materialized, suggesting that such entities might even hinder governmental processes.
As this debate intensifies, the Supreme constitutional court is set to become the arena for resolving these constitutional quandaries. The outcome of this legal challenge could redefine the executive framework of Cyprus and set a precedent for how governmental powers are allocated and exercised.