A fierce, ideologically charged debate took place in the Greek Parliament between the government and opposition parties over the amendment concerning the protection of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is expected to be voted on this morning.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis attended the session and defended the measure, describing the monument as a national symbol that belongs to all Greeks, emphasizing that it should not be used as a place of protest or activism. On the other side, all opposition leaders defended citizens’ right to demonstrate in front of Parliament, equating national liberation struggles with modern social demands.

“The spirit of unity must come before protest. Respect must come before shouting,” Mitsotakis said, reaffirming the government’s determination to fully protect the monument’s character.

“It is not a bulletin board for posting demands, no matter how justified they may be,” he stated, addressing in particular the parents of the Tempi train crash victims, warning that “ruthless politicians are trying to exploit and tarnish your cause.”

In response to criticism over the absence of Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, Mitsotakis reminded MPs that the minister had co-signed the amendment, taking responsibility for the maintenance and care of the monument, while public order remains under the jurisdiction of the Ministry for Citizen Protection.

He called the measure one of national responsibility and democratic sensitivity, adding to the Tempi victims’ families:
“No one can truly grasp your grief and anger. Activism at a sacred site does not serve your cause — a cause that has already been acknowledged. The government stands with every parent but also respects judicial independence. Ask yourselves if some cynical actors are exploiting your mourning for political gain, wearing the mask of solidarity.”

Mitsotakis also accused his political opponents of trying to foster artificial division in society through “rhetoric of confrontation and violence.”

Androulakis: “You’re Exploiting the Monument for Votes”

Opposition leader Nikos Androulakis (PASOK) responded:
“Today I understand why the Prime Minister believes he is irreplaceable. It’s only logical to feel that way when one takes such bold reformist initiatives. Congratulations, Mr. Mitsotakis,” he said sarcastically, later accusing the Prime Minister of arrogance.

He argued that “a monument symbolizing unity, struggle, and national sacrifice is being exploited for a few extra votes. That shows your moral standing.”

Although PASOK raised constitutional objections to the measure, it framed its opposition mainly as a spatial issue.

The party acknowledged that the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is indeed a monument deserving special respect and protection, but argued that the area directly in front of the monument, extending to Amalias Avenue, forms part of Syntagma Square, and therefore, any ban on public gatherings there would be unconstitutional.

PASOK MPs further proposed that protection could be ensured by restricting only the necessary square meters immediately around the monument — not the entire area defined by the amendment.