“I am not aware of the issue, but if that’s the way things are, Mr. Baltakos has no place in the government” was Prime Minister Samaras’ statement when he was informed about the video that Golden Dawn M.P. Elias Kasidiaris, brought to light. Mr. Samaras’ ultimate disapproval of his former consultant formalized Mr. Baltakos’ removal from his position as general secretary.

Maximou Mansion is bringing all guns to bear against the former secretary. People close to the prime minister stated that:

-Mr. Baltakos became independent at some point and played a personal, duplicitous game against the Prime Minister and the trust placed in him.

-They note that the cabinet secretary had no business conversing with Golden Dawn M.P.s who were being prosecuted.

-They added that the whole issue of the case is, the arrest and referral to justice of GD Members of Parliament for criminal activities is a done deal and will not change simply because of Mr. Kasidiaris and Mr. Baltakos’ views, either done under duress, or not.

-The video was recorded in October. Since then, the criminal file of Golden Dawn members has been further documented and enriched.

According to sources, Mr. Samaras did not even wish to meet with Mr. Baltakos, sending him a message to submit his resignation immediately.

In conclusion, Mr. Samaras has no connection to Mr. Baltakos’ views – the Prime Minister was, after all, the one to attempt the “uprooting” of the fascist phenomenon – however, basically bears the political responsibility, since he was the one to appoint Mr. Baltakos to his position.