Former Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has strongly criticised acting Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his government following his expulsion from the New Democracy party. Samaras, who once led the party, accused Mitsotakis of abandoning New Democracy’s core principles and being disconnected from its base.
In a statement, Samaras challenged Mitsotakis to identify any inaccuracies in his critiques, including on Greek-Turkish relations, inflation, and the “woke agenda.” He also defended his suggestion of Kostas Karamanlis as a candidate for Greece’s presidency in 2025.
“Arrogance and an obvious loss of nerve explain Mitsotakis’ move,” said Samaras. “I have sacrificed everything for the fatherland, even my health. But no one can force me to also sacrifice my conscience. The people and history will judge us all.”
Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis stated that Samaras’ recent interview, where he accused Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis of appeasing Turkey, marked a clear break with government policy. “Samaras placed himself, for the second time after 1993, outside of New Democracy,” said Marinakis.
In the interview, Samaras called for Gerapetritis’ removal, accusing him of conceding to Turkish demands in ongoing negotiations. While not naming the minister directly, Samaras referred to Gerapetritis’ past remarks about prioritising stability and calm relations with Turkey, even if labelled an appeaser.
Samaras has also criticised Mitsotakis’ progressive social policies, including the recent legalisation of same-sex marriage, and described any presidential discussions as “untimely” and disrespectful to the current head of state.
This marks the second major clash between Samaras and the Mitsotakis family. In 1992, Samaras was dismissed as foreign minister by Konstantinos Mitsotakis, Kyriakos’ father, over his hardline stance on Macedonia. In 1993, Samaras broke from New Democracy, leading to the fall of the Mitsotakis government.
Samaras served as New Democracy’s leader from 2009 to 2015, succeeding Kostas Karamanlis. However, his expulsion signals a deepening rift within Greece’s ruling party during a critical time for the country.
Source: Ekathimerini.
