Kyriakos Mitsotakis, speaking on SKAI’s main news bulletin last night, provided clarity on New Democracy’s target for the upcoming European elections. He suggested that the party’s electoral threshold is set at 33% based on past performance in the 2019 European elections, reflects a realistic goal. Mitsotakis reiterated the importance of maintaining political stability.
PM Mitsotakis also made a first hint for a third term, beyond 2027, saying that, “In 2027 we will hold national elections once more showcasing the government’s work for assessment by the Greek people.” The PM went on to rule out once again scenarios of any European cost following the upcoming European elections. While the four-year term seems somewhat at a distant, Mr. Mitsotakis’s statement holds significance in domestic political affairs shaped by its transparency in the political realm.
The Prime Minister further criticised SYRIZA and PASOK, however, his stronger remarks were kept for the emergence of the far-right. In response to discussions about political party Spartiates, Mr. Mitsotakis highlighted their exclusion from the electoral process by a Supreme Court decision, which is based on a regulation supported and voted by New Democracy.
In his address, Prime Minister Mitsotakis reserved his harshest critiques for Kyriakos Velopoulos’s Eliniki Lysi (Greek Solution) and Nikis party, citing recent incidents such as disputes in parliament and warnings towards ND MP’s in attending Easter church services specifically those who supported same-sex marriage. Mitsotakis highlighted Velopoulos’s “veiled threats” and criticised the commercialisation of religion. He denounced the proliferation of “pseudo-patriots,” highlighting New Democracy’s sound political mindset. Mitsotakis encouraged New Democracy supporters contemplating protest votes to reflect on the nation’s holistic advancement and refrain from misusing the European elections for futile dissent. He stressed that the primary concern is Greece’s position within Europe.
Ice thawing out in Delisi
Today marks an important day for Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as it appears that the reconciliation with the church will be formalised through his scheduled joint visit with Archbishop Ieronymos in Delesi. The Prime Minister and Archbishop Ieronymos have not had a direct meeting for several months in that the government’s stance on same-sex marriage has caused quite a stir in their relations. However, both parties are set to mend the divide and move forward.
The meeting was scheduled a few days ago, just before Easter, amidst warnings from Velopoulos to ND MPs and recent incidents in churches involving politicians. Archbishop Ieronymos has cautiously emphasised that the church seeks no retaliation, even to those with differing opinions. They will also be visiting childcare centers and the Gerontology Center in Delesi, both overseen by the Archbishop.
