Dialogos

OKYPY Operating Without Operational Director for Months

Published January 19, 2026, 06:02
OKYPY Operating Without Operational Director for Months

The State Health Services Organization (OKYPY) has been operating for months without a designated operational director, a critically important position for the organization's administration and function. MP Marina Nikolaou of AKEL raised the issue with the Minister of Health, pointing out that the position has been vacant since September 19, 2025, and the recruitment process has not begun. OKYPY manages an annual budget of over €500 million and employs more than 7,500 people, making the role of operational director vital. The Minister of Health, Neophytos Charalambidis, avoided taking political responsibility, citing lengthy administrative procedures requiring approvals from various ministries, departments, and Parliament. According to the minister, the completion of these procedures is expected within the first quarter of 2026, with the position being filled in the second quarter of the same year. In the interim, the responsibilities of the position have been temporarily assigned to the General Executive Director and the General Financial Director. However, this does not negate the fact that a significant administrative gap exists within OKYPY. Critics argue that the delay is not justified by the procedures but by a lack of timely planning and political will. They emphasize the need for clear answers, accountability, and responsibility from the government, given the criticality of OKYPY in providing public health services.