The main civil servants’ union, Pasydy, has requested a meeting with the president to discuss the suspension of Neofytos Papadopoulos, the permanent secretary at the deputy tourism ministry. Papadopoulos was placed on a three-month administrative suspension last week, with his salary reduced by half during this period, pending a disciplinary inquiry. The union argues that this measure, recommended by Deputy Tourism Minister Costas Koumis and ratified by the Public Service Commission, is disproportionate.

Pasydy expressed concerns that the suspension without transfer sets a concerning precedent and insists that Papadopoulos should have been reassigned to another department until the inquiry concludes. The union also emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where civil servants can exercise professional judgment without fear, criticizing the minister’s accusations against Papadopoulos of insubordination and creating a toxic workplace.

Tensions between Koumis and Papadopoulos reportedly escalated over several months, culminating in a dispute following a drone incident at Akrotiri amid the Persian Gulf war. Reports indicate conflicts arose from Papadopoulos issuing orders contrary to the minister’s instructions and proposing ministry restructuring without approval, leading to the current disciplinary actions.