by EBR
Greek socialist Pasok and leftist Syriza, the New Left and Course of Freedom parties agreed late last night on the text for a motion of no-confidence. The train accident has triggered strong reactions. Last week, millions of Greeks protested across the country and abroad calling on the judges who investigate the case to prosecute then-Transport Minister Kostas Karamanlis.
Opinion polls suggest that the train accident has dealt a severe blow to the government. According to the latest poll conducted before the protests, 56% of respondents showed dissatisfaction with the way the government had handled the train accident. When it comes to voting intention, New Democracy still leads with 24% followed by Pasok (13%), Syriza and Course of Freedom with 7% each and conservative Voice of Reason 4%.
The motion of no-confidence is not expected to pass as New Democracy still has a majority in the Greek parliament. However, analysts in Athens suggest that the move will likely bring the opposition progressive parties closer. On the other hand, conservative Greek Solution and Voice of Reason whose leaders come from the ranks of New Democracy and have expressed pro-Trump views, will vote against the motion of no-confidence. They both said the motion will bring the opposite results as it will unite the government and throw them a lifeline. Several Greek media reports have suggested that the pro-Trump conservative parties could be an alternative government option for New Democracy in case they decide to go for snap elections. Both parties have ruled out such a scenario.
Within that context, the government is trapped in a spiral of uncertainty, navigating both an unprecedented wave of “social opposition” – as evidenced by Friday’s mass demonstrations – and increasing political pressure from opposition parties. Meanwhile, the resignation of Deputy Minister for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Christos Triantopoulos due to the pre-investigation proceedings and the departure of General Secretary for Civil Protection Vasilis Papageorgiou for “reasons of conscience” further destabilized the administration.
Intensive meetings throughout the weekend at Maximos Mansion sought a political formula to demonstrate responsiveness to public outrage and ease the growing unrest. However, no clear solution has emerged, as each proposed move presents its own set of complications.
The government has ruled out shutting down the railway system, as doing so would raise critical questions. Why was this not considered two years ago? And what safety measures have been in place during that time? The lack of convincing answers to these concerns makes this option politically unfeasible. Ending the contract with Hellenic Train poses significant diplomatic and financial risks. The company is partially owned by the Italian government, making the issue not just a national concern but also an international one. The recent postponement of a planned meeting between Mitsotakis and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni further highlights the complexity of this decision. Moreover, expanding the pre-investigation committee to include more individuals is not a simple matter, as it requires judicial intervention. Broadening the investigation could be seen as “criminalizing political life,” a move the government is seeking to avoid. Establishing a committee composed of political officials could signal a proactive response. However, critics argue that such a move would have little impact on the general public.
While a reshuffle appears inevitable, Mitsotakis faces a strategic dilemma: Implement sweeping changes to signal a fresh start or maintain party balance to avoid internal discord. While a bold overhaul could project strength, it also risks creating new conflicts within the administration.
By: N. Peter Kramer
