The political world of the country has been in mourning since yesterday due to the passing of Kostas Simitis.

The former Prime Minister passed away at the age of 88 on Sunday morning at the Corinth hospital, where he was rushed from his home in Agioi Theodoroi. Kostas Simitis had been at his holiday residence with his wife, Daphne Simitis, who noticed his discomfort early in the morning.

He arrived at the Corinth hospital without a pulse at 7:30 AM, and his death was confirmed at 8:10 AM. The hospital director confirmed the news of his death in statements to television channels, and a formal announcement was issued shortly afterward.

According to the announcement, “Today (yesterday) around 7:30 AM, the former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis was transported to the Emergency Department of our hospital via an EKAV ambulance, unresponsive. Resuscitation efforts were unfortunately unsuccessful, and his death was confirmed. The administration and staff of our hospital express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

The funeral of Kostas Simitis will take place on Thursday, January 9, at 12:00 PM at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, followed by his burial at the First Cemetery of Athens.

According to a government announcement, the funeral will be conducted at public expense, with the honors befitting an incumbent Prime Minister, and a four-day national mourning period has been declared.

The Government’s Announcement

The Minister of Interior, Theodoros Livanios, expressed the state’s recognition of Kostas Simitis’s significant contributions to Greece on the occasion of his passing.

“Kostas Simitis was a politician who was twice honored by the Greek people with the office of Prime Minister. He sought, at times with great success, at others with less, to transform the country, addressing the challenges of the times,” Mr. Livanios stated, emphasizing the deceased’s dedication to his duties.

The minister highlighted Kostas Simitis’s character, describing him as an academic with a rich body of work and a prominent figure in the anti-dictatorship struggle. “A university professor with a substantial academic contribution, a leading personality of the anti-dictatorship movement, he always carried himself with dignity and integrity,” he noted.

Mr. Livanios also mentioned two historic achievements closely tied to Kostas Simitis: Greece’s inclusion in the eurozone and Cyprus’s entry into the European Union. “Above all, we remember the two historic milestones that bear his personal stamp: Greece’s entry into the eurozone and Cyprus’s membership in the European Union,” he said.

Theodoros Livanios expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Kostas Simitis: “My sincere condolences to his wife, daughters, and loved ones.”

Four Defining Moments in Kostas Simitis’s Career

The journey of Kostas Simitis, spanning from his birth in 1936 to his passing in 2025, mirrors the modern history of Greece, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s course during key moments. Within this storied path filled with experiences, several moments stand out as milestones of the past decades.

The Conflict with Andreas Papandreou

After PASOK’s electoral victory in October 1981 and the formation of its first government, Simitis was invited by Andreas Papandreou to serve:

• As Minister of Agriculture (1981–1985): He ensured the successful integration of Greek agriculture into European agricultural policy and secured an increase in subsidies.
• As Minister of National Economy (1985–1987): He implemented the first stringent stabilization program, which had a positive impact on macroeconomic imbalances.
• As Minister of Education and Religious Affairs: During the coalition government under Professor Xenophon Zolotas (November 1989–February 1990).
• As Minister of Industry, Energy, and Technology (also overseeing Trade): From 1993 to 1995, he set the framework for a long-term economic development policy.

His commitment to reforms often led to clashes with Andreas Papandreou, which resulted in his temporary removal from government and earlier from PASOK positions.

In 1979, he resigned from the Executive Office after leaks, reportedly stemming from Papandreou himself, concerning a pamphlet he wrote with the slogan “Yes to the Europe of the peoples.”

Two years later, during PASOK’s 1981 victory, Simitis was not a parliamentary candidate following a decision by the Central Committee, despite assurances from Papandreou.

Later, Papandreou proposed that he run on the European Parliament ticket, but Simitis declined, saying: “I was annoyed by the impression he tried to create—that I was asking PASOK to secure a ‘career’ for me. I had achieved that on my own and didn’t need any position.”

The Explosive 1996 Congress

On January 18, 1996, after Andreas Papandreou resigned from the premiership, PASOK’s parliamentary group convened to elect a new Prime Minister. In a heated process, Simitis emerged victorious over Akis Tsochatzopoulos in the second voting round.

On June 30, 1996, shortly after Papandreou’s death, Simitis was elected PASOK president at the party’s fourth congress.

The 1996 congress captivated public attention due to its stakes: Would PASOK embrace a new direction, or would traditional party members maintain their influence?

Amidst internal strife, Simitis set a clear ultimatum: “If I’m not elected president, I’ll resign as Prime Minister.” This stance galvanized supporters but also sparked fierce reactions.

The Imia Crisis

From December 25, 1996, tensions between Greece and Turkey escalated over the Imia islets. By January 29, 1997, Turkish commandos had occupied one of the islets, leading to an international crisis that required U.S. mediation to avoid armed conflict.

Despite public criticism for his handling, Simitis thanked the Americans in parliament for their intervention, showcasing his pragmatic approach to diplomacy.