The political tension dominating the national climate, often marked by extreme language and personal attacks, became a topic of discussion among Greece’s political leaders and the President of the Republic during the reception held in the gardens of the Presidential Mansion. The event marked the 51st anniversary of the restoration of democracy.

“It is very difficult to pretend we are meeting socially and casually with people who accuse us using derogatory and vulgar terms,” Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reportedly remarked, highlighting the strain among political opponents.

Notably absent from the reception were Zoe Konstantopoulou, leader of Plefsi Eleftherias (Course of Freedom), Kyriakos Velopoulos of the Greek Solution, and Dimitris Natsios of the NIKI party. A tense moment unfolded at the entrance when Alexis Charitsis, president of the newly founded New Left party, arrived accompanied by a Palestinian guest. Entry was denied, and after issuing a brief statement explaining the symbolic nature of his gesture, Charitsis left the premises.

Despite the political chill, the guest list featured not only politicians and MPs but also figures of strong social significance. Among them was Gogka Levián, the man who deeply moved the nation with his act of selflessness when he dove into the Arachthos River in an attempt to save two children. He was later honored with Greek citizenship for his bravery. Also in attendance were students who excelled in this year’s national university entrance exams, as well as Olympians and Paralympians, all of whom represent inspiring facets of modern Greek society.

Famellos: “No one should provide grounds for being labeled”
SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance President Sokratis Famellos commented on the OPEKEPE case during his attendance at the reception for the 51st anniversary of the restoration of democracy.

He stated: “No one should provide grounds for being labeled, and all such labels are included in the European Public Prosecutor’s case file.”

Tassoulas on Political Tensions and Conversation with Party Leaders
President of the Hellenic Parliament, Konstantinos Tassoulas, referred to his recent discussions with political leaders, saying:
“We spoke briefly about the use of certain expressions that often cross the line. I brought up the issue. Some journalists asked me if I intend to play the role of the peacekeeper. A conversation began about rhetoric that sometimes goes too far. But such discussions lead nowhere because no one will admit to excesses.”

When asked about the absences at the reception, he quipped: “Do you go everywhere you’re invited? Some people don’t attend — just as others haven’t in the past.”

Androulakis: “The atmosphere isn’t tense, but the legal climate is”
PASOK President Nikos Androulakis remarked: “The President told us he plans to upgrade the energy efficiency of the Presidential Mansion because it’s outdated.”

Commenting on the political situation, he added: “The atmosphere isn’t particularly tense, but the circumstances are, due to the large number of ongoing legal cases.”

Mitsotakis: “It’s hard to pretend we’re meeting socially and casually”
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed the strained political climate during the same discussion with the President and political leaders.

“It’s very difficult to pretend we’re gathering in a social and relaxed setting with people who accuse us with degrading and vulgar language,” he said. “This is not a proper political climate — and talk of ‘mafias’ has no place in it,” Mitsotakis reportedly added.

Thanos Plevris Attends Reception at the Presidential Mansion
Thanos Plevris, Minister of Migration and Asylum, was also present at the 51st anniversary celebration of the restoration of democracy.

Lefteris Petrounias and Paralympians at the Presidential Mansion

Greek Olympic gold medalist Lefteris Petrounias, along with distinguished Paralympians, were present at the Presidential Mansion to mark the 51st anniversary of the restoration of democracy in Greece. Their presence added a symbolic and honorable tone to the national celebration.

Reception at the Presidential Mansion

Among those attending the official reception was former Minister of Rural Development, Lefteris Avgenakis, who also paid tribute to the democratic milestone of the nation.

Journalist and news anchor for MEGA, Katerina Panagopoulou, was also spotted arriving at the event.

In recognition of their recent achievements, all Olympic and Paralympic athletes who competed in Paris were invited to attend the celebration of democracy.

Honoring the New Generation

Danae Papadopoulou, who secured the top position for admission into the Medical School of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, was present as well, representing academic excellence among Greek youth.

Also in attendance was Danae Kakotrixi from Marousi, who earned the highest overall score in Greece in the 2025 Panhellenic Exams, gaining admission to the Medical School of the University of Athens. Her invitation to the Presidential Mansion underscored the role of education in the future of democracy.

A Political Statement and Withdrawal

Notably absent from the reception was the President of the New Left, Alexis Charitsis. Although he initially arrived at the Presidential Mansion, he withdrew from the event after being denied permission to enter with Mr. Kamel Kotkot — a Palestinian refugee and guardian of a minor from Gaza who is currently hospitalized in Athens.

Charitsis explained his decision in a statement:

“Mr. Kamel Kotkot is a Palestinian refugee, guardian of a child from Gaza hospitalized in Athens.
I asked for him to accompany me to the event at the Presidential Mansion, in accordance with protocol, to mark the restoration of our democracy.
We Greeks know what invasion, occupation, and displacement mean. Democracy gains true meaning when it aligns with the just struggles of peoples for peace and freedom. My request was denied.
I find it inconceivable that the Greek Democracy of 2025 has no room for the persecuted victims of genocide. My place is therefore here — on the side of Palestine.”

Mr. Kotkot later addressed reporters, painting a grim picture of the devastation in Gaza, thanking the Greek people for their solidarity, and urging continued support for the Palestinian cause.

Other Political Absences

Zoe Konstantopoulou, President of the “Course of Freedom” party, also chose not to attend. Instead, she announced from Parliament that she would participate in a solidarity event in Syntagma Square for the Palestinian people.

“During the reception, I will be at Syntagma Square supporting the victims of genocide in Palestine. Our people once needed international solidarity under dictatorship — today, Palestinians need voices that resist.”

She also criticized the government for attempts to control the judiciary and independent authorities and condemned planned disciplinary measures in Parliament targeting those who exceed speaking time, which she believes are aimed at silencing opposition voices — including herself. She further revealed that she had been served a lawsuit for obstructing transportation during a farmers’ protest in Karditsa earlier this year.

Early Arrivals and Tributes

The first to arrive at the Presidential Mansion included outstanding students from last year’s national exams, as well as Goga Levian — the man who bravely dove into the Arachthos River in an attempt to save children who tragically lost their lives. His attendance served as a tribute to heroism and personal sacrifice.