From the decision of the Economic Prosecutor’s Office, to lift the protection status of the two witnesses for Novartis, the full-length radio interview of the Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister, Thanasis Kontogeorgis, on the First Program of ERT began. Regarding the objections, in particular, of the opposition, he replied: “The objection cannot concern the Greek judiciary because it is a decision made by the judiciary”, was his first comment. And, “since nothing came of it, we’re obviously talking about people who, instead of witnesses, were false witnesses.”
He clarified, however, that “the status of protected witnesses continues to exist, because it is extremely crucial for the disclosure of illegal acts. This did not happen in this particular case.”
Consequently, “what the opposition reports is very far from reality, because justice works and defends the rule of law, as well as the existing legal framework”, pointed out Th. Kontogeorgis. Recalling earlier statements by officials of the SYRIZA government (“the biggest scandal” coke) he insisted that “ten people were hanged, apparently for something that had not been done”.
Next topic, the positions of the ruling party’s deputies in Greek-Turkish: “Through a systematic effort, the prime minister has created a political capital, and an international one, which has allowed the country to have important alliances and strengthen its deterrent capacity. In relation to Turkey, obviously there has to be a discussion, in order for there to be calm in the region. The only difference that exists with Turkey is known and we are moving in this direction. After all, in Mr. Gerapetritis’ briefing to the MPs of the New Democracy, a very substantial discussion took place, as in general the meetings of ministers and MPs are substantial”, said the Deputy Minister in addition to the Prime Minister.
These procedures, on the other hand, strengthen the internal dialogue, he also stated, at the same time pointing out that the government and MPs of the coalition “have the same goal: to have a good government that will provide solutions to citizens’ problems and a perspective for the next day ».
Asked to comment on Ankara’s claims about the Turkish continental shelf between Chios and Lesvos, he was categorical: “The Greek government has taken all the necessary actions for this illegal action”, after all “Greece exercises all its sovereign rights”, he assured and he emphasized that “the role of the country is stabilizing, we will insist on this”.
In the landscape that has formed to the right of New Democracy, he intervened by saying that “the government has a plan, which it follows in the axes of the economy, public administration, reforms, and of course those concerning defense and foreign policy. We have had enough of… super-patriots”.
However, he added, “the prime minister, the government as a whole, we are fanatical supporters of the idea that we continue our work. This will yield results, that’s where we must be focused” and at the end of the four years “citizens will evaluate whether we did well or not”.
In response to the well-known questions about changing the electoral law, Kok recalled that during the first four years, after the first year had passed, “we discussed whether early elections would be held, whether the electoral law would be changed, with whom the ND would cooperate. The prime minister, the government, especially on these issues, have moved absolutely institutionally. And I don’t know to what extent society is concerned about whether elections will be held, whether the electoral law will be changed. There are other issues on which we are focused,” he noted, highlighting at the same time the position that “in matters of the institutional functioning of democracy, the government operates with complete transparency.”
On the question of the income of Greek citizens, the deputy minister in addition to the prime minister cited yesterday’s eurostat data, according to which “the disposable income of Greeks from 2019 to date has increased by 29%”. On the other hand, he acknowledged, “there are factors that contribute to the reduction of disposable income and we are looking to combat them”.
Specifically for supermarket prices, “there has been a big price increase, mainly imported due to the energy crisis, but also due to practices. Now the control mechanisms of the market will be more… polished and qualified in relation to the practices in the market. A framework has been put in which seems to be working and performing. There is constant vigilance”, he assured in this regard, underlining at the same time “the big bet”, which is sustainable development, which “it seems we are achieving, but it also needs political stability and persistence in policies”.
Asked to comment on the parliamentary incident between the prime minister and the president of the Parliamentary Group of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance, Th. Kontogeorgis stated on this that “there are known issues with Mr. Pappas and the prime minister and symbolically with this move he highlighted them ». After all, “we all have a memory in this country.”
Beyond that, “the government has prioritized solving the problems”, while “the opposition will do its job in the way it chooses, we always hope for a constructive opposition”. However, he added, “if we judge from the first bill, of the Ministry of the Interior, which has to do with the acceleration of the procedures at the ASEP but also a fairer operation of the recruitment system, there was not a very positive response”. In conclusion, “these are evaluated by the citizens. We will see if the opposition will be “no to everything” or if it will have nuggets of opposition that can help the right reason, we are waiting for samples of writing”.
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**Interview with Thanasis Kontogeorgis, Deputy Minister to the Prime Minister**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Kontogeorgis. Recently, the Economic Prosecutor’s Office lifted the protection status of the witnesses in the Novartis case. Can you clarify the government’s position on this decision?
**Kontogeorgis**: Thank you for having me. The decision to lift the protection status was a judicial one, and we must respect the independence of the judiciary. If those individuals did not meet the criteria of credible witnesses, it raises questions about their integrity. However, I want to emphasize that the overall framework for protected witnesses remains vital for uncovering illegal activities.
**Editor**: You mentioned the accusations from the opposition regarding this case. Can you elaborate on your views?
**Kontogeorgis**: The claims being made by the opposition are largely unfounded. They seem to ignore that the judiciary is functioning properly and protecting the rule of law. It’s important to remember that some narratives stem from past political scandals that did not deliver on their promises, which can lead to misinformation.
**Editor**: Moving on to Greek-Turkish relations, you spoke about a more systematic approach taken by the Prime Minister. What are the key points in this strategy?
**Kontogeorgis**: The government has successfully built political and international capital that enhances our alliances and strengthens our deterrent capabilities. Dialogue with Turkey is necessary for ongoing calm in the region. Despite rising tensions, we are committed to defending our sovereign rights and ensuring Greece remains a stabilizing force in the area.
**Editor**: Regarding recent Turkish claims about the continental shelf, what’s the Greek government’s stance?
**Kontogeorgis**: We assert that these claims are unfounded and illegal. Greece has taken all necessary measures to respond appropriately. Our government remains steadfast in exercising our sovereign rights, and we intend to maintain a stabilizing presence in the region.
**Editor**: There’s been talk about electoral reform and the focus of the government. How do you address these concerns?
**Kontogeorgis**: We’ve been very clear about our agenda over the past four years. Our focus is on governance, economic reform, and addressing public administration. Discussions about elections should not overshadow our commitment to the people. Transparency in our democratic processes is key.
**Editor**: Lastly, on the economic front, how are Greek citizens faring?
**Kontogeorgis**: According to recent Eurostat data, there has been a 29% increase in the disposable income of Greeks since 2019. While we acknowledge existing challenges, these statistics reflect our ongoing efforts to improve the living standards of our citizens.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Kontogeorgis. It appears the government is focused on stability and reform during these complex times.
**Kontogeorgis**: Thank you for having me. We are committed to our path, and time will tell how effectively we’ve managed the various challenges we face.
E illegal and have been thoroughly addressed. Greece is firmly exercising its sovereign rights and taking all necessary actions to protect them. Our role is to promote stability in the region, and we will continue to advocate for our rights with unwavering commitment.
**Editor**: Turning to the economic situation, you cited data showing a 29% increase in the disposable income of Greeks since 2019. What measures is the government taking to address the factors affecting disposable income, such as rising supermarket prices?
**Kontogeorgis**: While it’s true that disposable income has seen an increase, we acknowledge that external factors, including the energy crisis, are impacting prices in the market. We are implementing enhanced market monitoring mechanisms to combat these price hikes and ensure transparency. Sustainable development is a key focus for us, and we aim to achieve this while maintaining political stability.
**Editor**: There was a recent parliamentary incident involving the Prime Minister and the President of the SYRIZA Parliamentary Group. How does the government view this situation?
**Kontogeorgis**: That incident highlights ongoing tensions, particularly regarding historical grievances related to governance. It’s a reminder that our political history shapes current discussions. However, our priority remains on addressing citizens’ concerns and challenges. Constructive opposition is always welcomed, but we also need to see genuine engagement rather than outright negativity.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Kontogeorgis. It’s clear that the government is focused on maintaining its policies and addressing the challenges ahead.
**Kontogeorgis**: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. Our work continues with the aim of providing solutions for all citizens.
