As part of the presentation of the book “The Secret Files of Karamanlis” by journalist Manolis Kottakis, a joint intervention by the War Museum will take place at 8:00 PM, featuring two former prime ministers, Antonis Samaras and Kostas Karamanlis.
Upon arrival, Antonis Samaras, accompanied by his wife, Georgia, was warmly welcomed by Messinians waiting in the forecourt. Kostas Karamanlis arrived with his family, notably wearing a tie adorned with the Greek flag.
Familiar with the inner workings of the New Democracy (ND) party, Antonis Samaras and Kostas Karamanlis have maintained a friendship since the 1970s, despite occasional ups and downs. Recently, they have been coordinating more closely, often meeting discreetly. In September 2022, they dined at “Vrachos” in Thessaloniki, and in December at “Vassilis,” one of Samaras’ regular spots in Kifissia. Karamanlis attended the opening of the Antonis Samaras Foundation at the Pallas Theater, and today they will make a joint appearance at the War Museum for the presentation of the book “The Secret Files of Karamanlis” by journalist Manolis Kottakis.
Though rumors and speculation are common in ND, Samaras, and Karamanlis currently share a common stance: opposition to Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his policies. Karamanlis withdrew from the ND ballots in 2023 and made a symbolic gesture during the recent European elections by greeting Aphrodite Latinopoulou. Samaras, who frequently speaks publicly, did not endorse ND in the European elections, and voted against key amendments, signaling his distance from the current ND leadership.
Message to Mitsotakis
Insiders expect the speeches by Samaras and Karamanlis to be significant. Specifically, Samaras is anticipated to sharply address issues, such as national concerns, same-sex marriage, and the need to return to conservative values. Karamanlis is also expected to make pointed remarks on national and domestic issues. Their intervention follows a disappointing result for ND and coincides with the recent success of Marine Le Pen’s party in France, suggesting a perceived need for a “right turn” in political strategy.
Both former prime ministers understand that their speeches will provoke debate. Mitsotakis has previously emphasized a strategy of moderate expansion, appealing to both traditional ND supporters and newcomers. However, he will not attend today’s event at the War Museum, although invited. Few from Maximos Palace will be present, perhaps only government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis. Nevertheless, many ND MPs, central ministers, deputy ministers, MEPs, and party officials are expected to attend, as the offices of Samaras and Karamanlis have mobilized supporters to ensure a strong turnout.
Maximos and the Challenge
Traditionally, Megaros Maximos refrains from commenting on former prime ministers’ positions. This practice was broken with Karamanlis’ stance on the wiretapping case and Samaras’ vote against the foreign workers’ amendment. Depending on today’s speeches, Maximos Palace may respond on Monday night.
The Presidential Ambitions
Many speculate that the event also signals ambitions for the 2025 Presidential election. Both Samaras and Karamanlis believe that the term of current President Sakellaropoulou should not be renewed. Samaras has stated he will not vote for her. Increasingly, voices within ND call for a center-right candidate for President. Mitsotakis, however, has indicated he does not want to engage in this discussion now, leading to ongoing political tension.
