DistantNews
Support us
Greek PM Mitsotakis Sets 2027 Election Date, Cites Need for Absolute Majority
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ท Greece /Elections & Politics

Greek PM Mitsotakis Sets 2027 Election Date, Cites Need for Absolute Majority

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Interview Named sources New plan
  • Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that elections will be held in the spring of 2027, after Greece assumes the EU Council presidency on July 1.
  • He reiterated his party's goal of achieving an absolute majority, citing a lack of conditions for a coalition government.
  • Mitsotakis addressed issues including the cost of living, minimum wage increases, tax relief, and controversial decisions regarding public sector salaries and church payments.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced Thursday that the next general elections will take place in the spring of 2027. This timing aligns with Greece's upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, which begins on July 1 of that year.

Speaking in an interview, Mitsotakis reaffirmed his party's objective of securing an absolute majority in parliament. He explained that the conditions for forming a coalition government are not currently met, emphasizing that voters choose not only a party but also a prime minister. Mitsotakis acknowledged that the high cost of living is a major concern for households, attributing it primarily to international fuel prices. He highlighted government measures such as minimum wage increases, tax relief, and support for families and pensioners.

I believe I have the experience and knowledge to lead the country to another great leap.

โ€” Kyriakos MitsotakisExplaining his motivation for seeking a third term as Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister expressed opposition to reducing VAT and excise duties, deeming such measures "fiscally unsustainable." He also ruled out reinstating the 13th salary for public sector employees, stating that many of their demands have already been addressed through ongoing salary increases. Mitsotakis differentiated between public sector employees, noting that targeted raises and benefits have been provided to specific groups like doctors and uniformed personnel.

The citizens do not vote only for a party, but also for a prime minister.

โ€” Kyriakos MitsotakisJustifying his party's goal of achieving an absolute majority.

Regarding the salaries of metropolitans, Mitsotakis defended the increases, stating they were not as significant as publicly reported and represented a long-standing request from the Church of Greece. He also addressed ongoing investigations into cases like OPEKEPE (the Greek state aid organization for farmers), the Tempi train disaster, and wiretapping allegations, asserting that justice is investigating all matters and the government is not covering up responsibilities. He cited European Commission reports indicating Greece's progress in rule of law matters.

When asked about his pursuit of a third term, Mitsotakis stated his belief in his experience and knowledge to lead the country to further progress, adding that this would be his final term as he does not intend to seek a fourth.

These measures are fiscally unsustainable.

โ€” Kyriakos MitsotakisCommenting on proposals to reduce VAT and excise duties.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.