Clash Erupts Between Georgiadis and Latinopoulou Over Comments on Deceased Former PM Simitis

A heated exchange has erupted between Greek Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis and politician Aphrodite Latinopoulou following comments made by Latinopoulou regarding the late former Prime Minister Costas Simitis. Georgiadis condemned Latinopoulou's remarks, made shortly after Simitis' death, as "appalling" and culturally insensitive, criticizing both their timing and content.

Latinopoulou, for her part, defended her right to critique Simitis' political legacy, accusing Georgiadis of twisting her words and political opportunism. The clash highlights the deep divisions within the Greek political landscape and the ongoing debate surrounding Simitis' legacy.

The controversy centers around statements made by Latinopoulou on SKAI television, where she criticized Simitis' handling of the Imia crisis, the stock market crash during his tenure, the extradition of Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan to Turkey, and the removal of religious affiliation from Greek identity cards. She controversially declared that Turks, not Greeks, should mourn Simitis' passing.

Georgiadis responded forcefully, arguing that criticizing a deceased individual before their burial is a violation of Greek cultural norms. He further accused Latinopoulou of promoting division and effectively labeling anyone who supported Simitis a traitor.

Latinopoulou, in an interview with Action24, maintained her stance, insisting she had merely stated "objective historical truths" and had not called Simitis a traitor. She questioned when it would be appropriate to voice her criticisms, pushing back against the notion that she should remain silent during a period of mourning.

This public dispute underscores the ongoing debate surrounding Simitis' time as Prime Minister and the differing perspectives on his impact on Greece. It also reveals the sharp political divisions within the country, with Georgiadis and Latinopoulou representing opposing viewpoints.