Shipping 'patriarchs' advise Samaras against new party; government courts Karamanlis

Two influential figures in Greek shipping, described as "patriarchs" of the industry, have urged former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras to reconsider his plans to establish a new political party. Their advice, reportedly from individuals aligned with the traditional right, suggests Samaras should carefully deliberate before committing to this political venture.

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The government would like Mr. Karamanlis "at the forefront."

The Greek political landscape is characterized by complex relationships between New Democracy party figures and its past leaders. Sources indicate that many within the party maintain open communication channels with multiple former leaders, including Samaras and Kostas Karamanlis, rather than adhering to strict party lines. Sotiris Koromantzos, a long-time associate of former interim Prime Minister Vangelis Meimarakis, is cited as an example of someone maintaining close ties with Samaras, leading to speculation about his potential involvement in Samaras's new party.

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He has specific disagreements with the government's policy, which he obviously does not withdraw.

Meanwhile, the current government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, appears to have written off any possibility of reconciliation with Samaras. However, they are actively seeking to engage Kostas Karamanlis. A recent public statement by government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis, expressing a desire to see Karamanlis "at the forefront," was a direct invitation. The government's strategy aims to leverage this overture to either draw Karamanlis closer or, at minimum, to neutralize his potential criticism by publicly honoring him as an "iconic leader."

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He also does not want to be identified with another party, such as Antonis Samaras's nascent party, and has shown this in every way.

Karamanlis has reportedly received these advances with composure. While he holds specific disagreements with the current government's policies, he is unwilling to align himself with Samaras's new party. He views his criticism as institutional and dignified, suggesting that the government's attempts at engagement will not alter his stance. This measured approach appears to suit the government, which primarily seeks to prevent Karamanlis from endorsing Samaras's political initiative. Adding to this, a "Karamanlis-aligned" figure approached by Samaras for his new party reportedly received advice from Karamanlis's circle to handle the situation cautiously, further underscoring Karamanlis's distance from the endeavor.

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The criticism he is exercising is institutional, dignified, and within limits.