In today's episode, Disy leader Averof Neophytou yesterday submitted his candidacy as party nominee for the 2023 presidential elections, asserting confidently that his party will win and retain power for five more years. 
Meanwhile, to replace the former Foreign Minister and possible presidential candidate Nikos Christodoulides, President Nicos Anastasiades has appointed veteran politician Ioannis Kasoulides.
In other news, schools reopened after an extended Christmas holiday yesterday, but 20 per cent of secondary school students and hundreds of younger pupils were unable to attend, either because they have Covid or are self-isolating as close contacts.
All this and more in the Cyprus Beat briefing brought to you by the Cyprus Mail.