Cyprus-Forum.com

[Sotos]

COMMERCE Minister George Lillikas was yesterday handed the role of Government Spokesman, with the Minister now performing a dual role in government.

He replaces Kypros Chrysostomides, who handed in his resignation last Friday to run for the parliamentary elections with AKEL.

After three years as spokesman, Chrysostomides yesterday officially handed over his post to Lillikas at the Press and Information Office in Nicosia. Chrysostomides informed reporters yesterday that he had met with President Tassos Papadopoulos and had thanked him for the trust that he had put in him during his three years as spokesman for the government.

“It could be said that during my term as Government Spokesman, the island went through some of its most historical events,” said Chrysostomides referring to the referendum of April 2004, Cyprus’ accession to the European Union, Turkey’s accession talks with the European Union and the tragedy of Helios Airways.

“I would like to add that I told the President that I would always be at his disposal and at the disposal of our nation. Regarding the appointment of the new Government Spokesman, I would like to say that Mr Lillikas has done an excellent job as Minister and I am sure he will have the same impact as Government Spokesman.”

Lillikas said it was very emotional for him to be assuming a post that was previously occupied by a friend who had done a great job during his time as spokesman.

“It is obviously a tricky time to be taking over such a role, especially as we head into the parliamentary elections,” said the Minister.

He then turned his attention to reporters and requested a meeting with them ahead of his new role. He added that he wasn’t sure when he would step down from the position, stating that decision would be taken by the President.

“I thought it would be best to have a meeting with you all, far away from cameras, so we can all discuss the best way for this job to work, bearing in mind the other position I have.”

The new spokesman didn’t waste time in warning reporters that because of his dual role in the government, he would not be at their disposal as often as they would like and that a discussion would be needed to see what could be done about it

“We need to find the best way for me to help you as Government Spokesman, seeing I will not always be free to act as Government Spokesman. I would like to thank my friend Kypros for all the good work he has done.”
Speaking to the Cyprus Mail later in the day, Lillikas said “I wouldn’t have taken the job if I hadn’t thought I could cope with the dual responsibility.” He added that he believed his meeting with journalists would take place tomorrow.

[Piratis]

Lillikas is an OK politician. I think he would do fine as a Government Spokesman but I don't think he has the experience needed to be a president.

Personally I like people that are less into party politics with vision, passion and are willing to do a lot of hard work to serve the country.

[cypezokyli]

Personally I like people that are less into party politics with vision, passion and are willing to do a lot of hard work to serve the country.

how about sotos

soto are you interested for the job?

[Piratis]

How about Perdikis?

[cypezokyli]

i thought outside of party politics... or?

i believe sotos is koinis apodohis - common acceptance

[Piratis]

No problem with Sotos. I never had a problem with what he said so far. I am sure that he is an ethical person that wouldn't steal our vote in order to sell us off. Just this makes him better than many (Cleredes, Anastasiades etc)

[cypezokyli]

well here is our forum candidate

[Sotos]

cypezokyli are you mocking me?

[cypezokyli]

no re.
i just wanted to propose a gc from the forum.
as one of the most active members, and one that has not received or expressed any "compliments" from and against anyone, that was my option

cant we even make jokes anymore ?
if you feel insulted, i apologise.

after this, i ll visit a seminar on poliitical correctness.

i promise...no more jokes, and always the right legal terms.

[Sotos]

No problem cypezokyli What does your nick name mean anyways? I like jokes too but I don't think they are always appropriate