The image from the first TV poll of the political season, by MRB for Open TV, reflects a situation that is not particularly flattering for the political system, with growing concern among citizens. Although New Democracy (ND) remains at the same percentage as in the European elections (27.7%), PASOK is second (13.4%), and SYRIZA (10.9%) has fallen to third place, now feeling pressure from the Hellenic Solution party. The daily life of citizens emerges as the biggest challenge for the government.
With little opposition, as both SYRIZA and PASOK are undergoing internal reorganization, the government faces political wear and growing public concern over several issues. Kyriakos Mitsotakis is aiming for a restart by showcasing important projects that are being implemented, along with announcements made at TIF, targeting families, vulnerable social groups, and the middle class, who are dealing with rising living costs.
Toll Reductions
The announcements about toll price reductions are a tangible example that Mitsotakis uses to show that the government is using all available resources for the benefit of citizens. This was demonstrated with the example of Attiki Odos, where the toll price was reduced from €2.80 to €2.50 for a few months before being handed over to a new contractor. Similarly, Mitsotakis announced that the €16 billion saved from the refinancing of the Maliakos-Kleidi concession will benefit drivers through toll reductions from the Pelagia station to the Kleidi station, saving around €2.80 to €3 per trip.
Speech on the “Strategic Plan for the Reconstruction of Thessaly”
The Financial Package and Works in Thessaly
While in Thessaly, which has been severely affected in recent years by natural disasters and damage to livestock, Mitsotakis showed determination to restart the region. Inaugurating infrastructure such as two Health Centers in Mouzaki and Karditsa, and speaking about the financial program for restoring the area, which was devastated, he referred to more than €3 billion being allocated, emphasizing that this is possible due to the positive performance of the Greek economy.
More than €600 million has already been provided for disaster recovery, and significant anti-flood works are now being planned. These projects across the four prefectures of Thessaly (Karditsa, Trikala, Larisa, Magnesia) have a budget of €75 million and began in early September.
The Dutch company HVA, which prepared the master plan for the area’s restoration, is undertaking studies for four major projects that needed updates due to new conditions after the Daniel storm. These include the Mouzaki and Pyli dams, the Girtonis Canal, and interventions in the Karla barrier. Part of the study will be funded by the Hellenic Bank Association, and these projects will soon enter the implementation phase. Additionally, a series of irrigation projects is being planned by the Ministry of Agricultural Development, as Thessaly also faces the risk of drought.
A Lot of Work to Be Done
The prime minister faced protesting citizens in the areas he visited, and the election results in Thessaly were a reminder of the accumulated dissatisfaction. In a speech at the Kileler Town Hall, Mitsotakis said, “What we are doing is not for show. We are doing it because there is a lot of work to be done.” Indeed, there is a lot of work to be done, and the prime minister sees political time until 2027, the projected election year, as a period for work, during which measurable results must be delivered to the citizens.
