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In the context of the Tempi incident and the referral of the investigation dossier by the Larissa appellate investigator to the Parliament regarding potential responsibilities of former Infrastructure and Transport Ministers Χρήστος Σπίρτζης and Κώστας Αχ. Καραμανλής, Pavlos Marinakis addressed political reporters. When asked about the government’s next steps, he stated:
“A general observation: It’s evident how swiftly the opposition has shifted its narrative away from accusations of cover-ups and other baseless claims they constructed with urgency. We see it positively that, albeit delayed, the truth has finally been revealed. Regarding your question, there has been considerable discussion lately about the Triandopoulos model. As a government, we believe that this approach, endorsed by Mr. Triandopoulos, serves as a guide for such cases. We must clarify that a minister should not be treated differently than citizens. The public cannot grasp why there should be two tiers of citizens. The Triandopoulos model refers to referral to a natural judge, ensuring that someone who considers themselves innocent—something we believe—will be judged by independent justice, by five senior judges, rather than through the filters of political parties with their own agendas. Even witness testimonies, including that of the Prime Minister, as raised by the opposition, are mandatory if assessed by the judicial council. In contrast, a proposal for witness testimony during a preliminary investigation relies on party decisions. Essentially, the specifics of this case need to be carefully examined as the dossier is substantially larger than that of the Triandopoulos case. Once we analyze it, we will provide our stance. However, we maintain our overarching principle: we will not obstruct justice. We encourage patience to study the case thoroughly and understand its contents. As for Mr. Sπίρτζης, any allegations against him have expired, and his remarks appear to be mere rhetoric.”
In response to questions about Mr. Karameros’s comments regarding Mr. Triandopoulos’ involvement in signing contracts for damage restoration from Daniel, the government spokesperson emphasized the presumption of innocence in a democracy. “It is understandable that SYRIZA, with its history of justice officials and leaders previously convicted by the Special Court, disregards the principle of innocence and its significance. Mr. Triandopoulos possesses this presumption, and he believes in his innocence. Ultimately, the natural judge will decide. Additionally, he was elected by the citizens. It’s ironic that the representative from SYRIZA claims this while sitting next to a legislator unequivocally convicted 13-0 by the Greek judiciary. Spare us the hypocrisy,” he remarked.
When asked why Mr. Karamanlis was not present, Marinakis explained that the projects were located in Thessaly, and thus the local MPs attended, emphasizing that attendance is voluntary. “It’s crucial for everyone to consider the entirety of our responses. I provided a complete answer. While we fundamentally believe that the Triandopoulos model serves as a guide, we need to study the case dossier to form our opinion. To understand how to implement a model, we must first assess the dossier, its details, and whether they point to any misconduct and their severity,” he elaborated.
Regarding the government’s refusal to accept the PASOK proposal for a preliminary investigation into Mr. Karamanlis, Marinakis stated that the Tempi dossier ties back to the Larissa case. “Our stance of supporting justice relates to what the judiciary describes in terms of possible political responsibilities. The dossier was sent to the Parliament. PASOK’s intent to create a narrative from a peripheral issue and draw its own conclusions, which we do not endorse, does not reflect the investigation of the Tempi case as outlined by the judiciary. PASOK is trying repeatedly to make this connection, but no one takes these arguments seriously. We prefer actions over the contradictions and indecisiveness of the opposition,” he emphasized.
“This further validates Mikis Theodorakis’ assertion that leftist fascism is the most severe form of fascism,” he commented regarding recent incidents at an event in Ianos. “Those on the other extreme need to accept that they will hear opinions they dislike and should not obstruct a democratic event that conveys truths. There has been clear exploitation of the suffering of affected families and distortion of reality by the opposition parties. If crimes are committed, justice must intervene; nobody is above the law. We stand alongside those who organized this event. Those who wish to stifle opinions should recognize that the era of impunity has irrevocably passed.”
Concerning reactions to the presidential decree on the delineation of settlements under 2,000 inhabitants, Marinakis highlighted the environment minister’s clarity. “Specifically for zone C, the Council of State found the delineation excessive. The ministry must respect the Council’s decisions and is considering legislative amendments,” he stated.
Asked about reports regarding measures the Prime Minister will announce at the Thessaloniki International Fair, including a potential increase in the VAT exemption threshold to 18,000 euros for small businesses and the abolition of taxation criteria for freelancers, Marinakis remarked: “The proposed increase of the VAT exemption threshold does not reflect reality; the government is not considering this. I deny it. Additionally, any specific measures mentioned that are to be announced by the Prime Minister at the Fair are purely theoretical; the government has not yet initiated preparatory meetings for these measures, so please don’t believe them. The goal of the government, and personally of the Prime Minister during the Fair, is to announce as many tax reductions or exemptions with a focus on bolstering the income of the middle class, including freelancers. However, specific measures have not been discussed. What is being written is purely theorized and speculative. We have a long road ahead of us and need to understand the fiscal space available for 2026.”
Regarding the cap on profit margins for food, he mentioned a two-month extension would be granted, and relevant announcements would be made by the responsible minister.
On the amendment of the electoral law for local elections and the comments of the Mayor of Athens referring to a “Frankenstein law,” Marinakis described this criticism as excessive and unwarranted. “It would be better for the city to expedite garbage collection in Athens, as it increasingly delays. Anyone who listens to what the Interior Ministry intends to implement will see that it secures the democratic process,” he noted, adding that low participation rates in second rounds of voting were observed and that the new law would promote resource savings.
Regarding the departures of employees from the Nea Dimokratia party, Marinakis stated that 65% left within less than a year, resulting in substantial cost savings. “Claims that after a period, Nea Dimokratia employees were paid by others are products of imagination,” he included.
When asked about the possibility of a blackout in Greece similar to that in Spain, the government spokesperson reminded that continuous meetings were held in preparation for Easter, referring to information shared by the relevant ministry.
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