The press conference of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) may not have produced major news, but it helped frame the political landscape ahead. The goal of the prime minister’s team was to keep the tone moderate, for Mr. Mitsotakis to provide answers on all issues, but in no case should the press conference overshadow his speech outlining the bold tax reform he announced, which would be further detailed this morning (11:00) by the finance team.

Mr. Mitsotakis’ objective over the two days was clear: to reconnect with key parts of the electorate that supported New Democracy in the 2019 and 2023 elections, but have since either drifted away or are watching developments with skepticism.

Insisting on his centrist strategy, while also addressing demands from the party’s right wing, Mitsotakis targeted families with children, uniformed personnel, pensioners, and young people, making special reference to this social and age group. Notably, his announcement of a tax-free income up to €20,000 for people under 25, and preferential tax treatment up to age 30, was one of the surprises of his package and widely discussed.

Clear Rules

Mitsotakis made the rules of the game clear for all players, political and otherwise. He stressed that elections will be held in 2027, without changing the electoral law. He dismissed as “irresponsible” any talk of a “mid-course change” in ND’s leadership that some might be imagining.

Twice, Mitsotakis referred to the so-called “political kitchen,” saying it may concern a few people around Kolonaki Square, but not the majority of citizens. This message also reached non-political centers that may have different views on developments. His remark about “golden sponsors” behind Tsipras’ comeback also did not go unnoticed, sparking behind-the-scenes discussions.

Citizens Decide: Majority or Coalition

Interestingly, Mitsotakis twice avoided presenting ND’s majority as an end in itself. Reversing the dilemma, he explained that his goal in 2027 is to present citizens with a series of deliverables based on his 2023 pledges and to seek the renewal of the political contract with him and ND. As he noted, it is the citizens who will decide whether ND governs alone in 2027 or if a coalition government will be necessary. In this, the prime minister did not ignore the current fragmentation of the political system.

A Dual Message to Former Leaders

Mitsotakis chose conciliation toward former prime ministers Antonis Samaras—whom he expelled from the parliamentary group and who is rumored to be preparing a new party—and Kostas Karamanlis, who is planning an intervention in October during the presentation of Evripidis Stylianidis’ book.

“There were certainly disagreements on policy issues and responses given on both sides, especially on foreign policy matters. However, I believe the bigger picture is that of a party which today is the only force of stability in our country, the only force that can ensure the prosperity of the Greek people and keep the national ship safe in very turbulent times. And I believe that ultimately this logic will prevail, and I do not wish to say more than that,” Mitsotakis said pointedly.

The outreach was clear, though recent hostilities between them have been multiple. Mitsotakis feels they are trying to undermine him, while they counter that he disrespected them, ignored their views, and altered the party’s character.

As prime minister, Mitsotakis took a step back, awaiting their response. Experienced observers, however, do not expect miracles, meaning the message could change character, and blame for continued tension could shift to the “formers” if they ignore his signal. As one seasoned political source noted, the road to 2027 is long, with many developments ahead.

Recovery as the Only Path

After the two-day TIF events, the government team returned to base. For Mitsotakis, recovery is the only path forward, even if he seemed to decouple his tax relief program from short-sighted political goals.

Mitsotakis knows the environment is not favorable, and that the government’s wear and tear after six years in power is not an ally. From the TIF stage, he wanted to show he remains in control of the game and can once again set the agenda, believing that citizens will credit him with returning growth dividends without fiscal risks.

Whether this is confirmed will be seen in upcoming polls. Mitsotakis, however, knows that the four months until year’s end will be far from smooth. Recovery is the only option; otherwise, 2026 will begin with less favorable prospects for the prime minister’s team.