Mitsotakis decides on 4 or 5 government 'upgrades' amid reshuffle

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is poised to make targeted changes to his government upon returning from Boston, signaling an imminent, albeit limited, cabinet reshuffle.

Sources indicate that approximately four or five ministerial positions will be affected. The adjustments are expected to primarily impact the Ministries of Infrastructure and Transport, Environment and Energy, and Foreign Affairs, with a potential inclusion of the Ministry of Development. These changes are intended to convey symbolic messages both within the New Democracy party and to the broader public.

The timing of these announcements is strategic. On Wednesday, the party will officially confirm the election of Konstantinos Kyranakis as its new general secretary. The reshuffling announcements are anticipated for Thursday, followed by Mitsotakis's visit to Thessaloniki on Friday, where he aims to rally support, particularly in the party's traditionally challenging western districts.

Significantly, the reshuffle is not expected to involve major dismissals. Instead, the focus appears to be on "upgrades" and strategic repositioning of personnel. This approach is designed to foster maximum party cohesion and project an image of outward focus, especially amidst a shifting political landscape including the announcement of a new party by Antonis Samaras. The goal is to avoid internal friction that often accompanies broader personnel changes.

The reshuffle will likely see new individuals entering the government, the return of some previously sidelined officials, and internal transfers. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis is expected to announce these changes. There is speculation that Marinakis himself might move to a new role, potentially succeeding Kyranakis as Deputy Minister of Transport, a position that would require him to resign his current spokesperson role upon the announcement of elections due to representation restrictions.