The Prime Minister took up the challenge posed by PASOK’s re-elected leader, who told him that he would open the exit door from Maximos Mansion. Mitsotakis refused to recognize Nikos Pappas as the leader of SYRIZA, noting that Pappas had been convicted 13-0.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis‘ return to Parliament, after a notable absence, provided a lot of excitement for fans of parliamentary clashes. One of the standout moments was the Prime Minister walking out of the chamber when SYRIZA’s parliamentary group leader, Nikos Pappas, took the podium.

In his response, Mitsotakis, aiming to appeal to an anti-SYRIZA audience, launched a strong attack on Pappas, refusing to acknowledge him as a legitimate conversation partner due to his 13-0 conviction in the special court regarding the TV licensing case.

Mitsotakis clarified he would not engage in any dialogue with Pappas, reiterating this by leaving the chamber during Pappas’ second speech.

Criticism of Samaras:

Mitsotakis’ criticism through Pappas also included a jab at former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, who recently had a warm interaction with Pappas at a public event. Mitsotakis hinted that Samaras’ behavior clashed with his previous stance on issues like the Novartis scandal, where he vowed to pursue justice to the end. Samaras’ cordial behavior with Pappas, regardless of the conversation’s content, stirred tensions within the government.

Mitsotakis made it clear that Samaras’ continuous differences and sharp comments have upset the leadership at Maximos Mansion. While Mitsotakis acknowledged Samaras’ views on national issues as respectable, he didn’t let the encounter between Samaras and Pappas go unnoticed.

Samaras’ Response:

Samaras responded through his associates, signaling a potential escalation of the internal party conflict. He emphasized that his stance on pursuing accountability in the Novartis scandal remains unchanged. Additionally, Samaras pointed out that the real issue lies in the increasingly strained relations with Turkey, as shown by Turkey’s recent Navtex announcements challenging the Greek islands’ rights.

Androulakis-Mitsotakis Rivalry:

Regarding PASOK, Mitsotakis also made his intentions clear during his speech. He criticized PASOK for a political “360-degree turn” and, addressing Androulakis, remarked that it will be the Greek people who decide in three years. Mitsotakis positioned Androulakis as a potential future opponent in the 2027 elections, inviting him to take up the challenge, while also referencing the country’s financial collapse during PASOK’s governance.

Androulakis, in his first speech since his re-election as PASOK leader, attacked Mitsotakis for his decision to walk out during Pappas’ speech, stating, “You cannot underestimate the opposition.” When asked if Mitsotakis views him as his main political rival, Androulakis diplomatically responded, “The people will judge that.”