The new Justice Minister, Konstantinos Fytiris, responded on Thursday to criticism by AKEL, stating on RIK’s Proti Enimerosi programme that he “never said” he was against a bizonal, bicommunal federation (BBF).
“I have always written articles, recording and referring to all possible scenarios related to the Cyprus issue and the EEZ,” Fytiris said, avoiding a clear statement on whether he ultimately supports the BBF.
On Monday, AKEL accused the Justice Minister of taking a firm stance against a BBF solution, noting that while Fytiris is entitled to his views, President Nikos Christodoulides should explain whether he considers it acceptable for members of his government to oppose the long-standing position of the Republic of Cyprus and the Greek Cypriot community, as defined by UN resolutions.
AKEL further said that the President “must consider the messages sent by these choices at a critical juncture for the Cyprus issue”.
The party also called on Fytiris to clarify whether, following his appointment, he would abandon his principles and views or participate in government with positions contrary to those declared by the President who appointed him.
Responding, Fytiris said he would not engage in “petty politics”, adding: “I saw the comments. I was a free citizen and I freely expressed my views.”
Fytiris’ articles
A number of articles authored by Fytiris have been published in the press, in which he openly expressed his positions. In an article published on 28 August 2023, titled “Counter-measures to Erdoğan’s absurdity and his proxies”, Fytiris wrote that “for half a century, the policy of the BBF has not delivered” and argued that the Greek Cypriot side should change course.
He stated that a solution could be achieved through the preservation of the Republic of Cyprus, with amendments to the 1960 Constitution to ensure proportional compromise and rights for Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
In another article published on 28 August 2021, titled “Preserving the Republic of Cyprus and amending the Constitution is the optimal solution”, Fytiris welcomed a proposal by former President Nicos Anastasiades to return to the 1960 Constitution, describing it as “the best option under the circumstances”.
In his writings, Fytiris consistently expressed a preference for a unitary state over a BBF, supporting the view that maintaining the Republic of Cyprus and amending its Constitution would be the most viable solution, provided effective diplomatic efforts were undertaken.
Invokes Socrates in response to ELAM claims
The Justice Minister also rejected claims that he originates from the ranks of ELAM, describing them as “malicious” and serving “petty agendas and petty politics”.
Referring to the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates, Fytiris said that those making such claims should remember that “if you do not know the truth, if what you say is not good and does not serve any purpose, it is better not to say it”.