Mitsotakis: The Majority Demanding Truth, Justice, and Modern Trains Will Judge Us in 2027

In a Sunday statement, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed the recent parliamentary debate over the Tempi train tragedy and the no-confidence motion against his government. Reflecting on the week’s events, he wrote:

“The no-confidence motion followed its constitutional course and concluded as our democratic system requires. But beyond political battles, what counts is how we respond to the demands of the majority who took to the streets in massive protests. They want truth, justice, and modern trains. We must accelerate state reforms and remove the obstacles holding Greece back. In 2027, this majority will hold us accountable for what we’ve delivered. We cannot—and will not—forget Tempi. We are pushing for the trial of this unbearable tragedy to start swiftly, while continuing our government’s work as our responsibility demands.”

European Defense Spending Breakthrough

Mitsotakis highlighted a key win for Greece in European affairs, noting:

“Greece, alongside other EU nations, can now exclude increased defense investments from deficit calculations thanks to a new escape clause. This is a significant achievement, bolstering our national security.”

Economic Progress and Job Growth

Citing recent data from ELSTAT, Mitsotakis celebrated Greece’s economic strides:

• Unemployment fell to 8.7%, a 17-year low, down three points from last year and nearly ten points since January 2019.
• The Greek economy grew by 2.3% in 2024, far outpacing the Eurozone’s 0.9%, with a robust final quarter.
• Investments soared, with gross fixed capital formation rising 9% and exports up 3.6%.

He also pointed to a recent upgrade by credit rating agency DBRS, which raised Greece’s rating to “BBB” with a stable outlook, reinforcing the country’s economic credibility.

Landmark Health Program

Mitsotakis spotlighted the “PROLAMVANO” (Prevent) initiative, offering free cardiovascular screenings to 5.2 million Greeks aged 30–70. He encouraged participation, noting that early detection could save 20,000 lives per million screened.

Housing Solutions for Students and Military

Addressing housing challenges, Mitsotakis outlined new measures:

• Students: Housing allowances increased to €2,500 for shared rentals, alongside plans for five new dormitories (housing 10,000 students) and a €20 million renovation of the Athens Men’s Student Hall on Patission Street.
• Military: 172 new apartments were opened for armed forces personnel in Chaidari, with a broader 4,000-unit housing plan by 2030 for military members, doctors, and teachers in remote regions.

Boosting Tourism and Welfare

• The “Tourism for All” program is growing with €25 million in funding and subsidies up to €600 for vulnerable groups.
• Starting March 15, a digital welfare system will distribute 19 social benefits via prepaid cards, simplifying access.

Public Transport Improvements in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki’s transit system is getting an upgrade: 15 new buses are operational, with 26 more arriving by month’s end. Soon, 151 new vehicles will modernize the OASTH fleet, phasing out older models.

Energy Exploration Push

Mitsotakis announced an international tender for hydrocarbon exploration in the Ionian Sea and south of the Peloponnese, with interest from companies like Chevron and HELLENiQ Energy signaling Greece’s rising appeal as an energy hub.

Eye on 2027

Closing his statement, Mitsotakis reaffirmed his government’s focus on reform, economic stability, and security. Acknowledging public frustration, he stressed that results would determine his administration’s fate in 2027.

As Greece faces domestic and global challenges, the next few years will prove pivotal in defining its political and economic trajectory.

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