Thessaloniki, Greece — On the second anniversary of the devastating Tempi train accident, thousands of Greek citizens gathered in Thessaloniki to honor the memory of the 57 lives lost and to demand justice and accountability. The accident, which occurred on February 28, 2023, remains a poignant symbol of public demand for improved safety measures and greater responsibility from authorities.
Thessaloniki: The Viral Video from the Tempi Rally
A viral video captured during the rally showed a remarkable moment of solidarity when protesters formed a corridor for an EKAV ambulance to pass through the crowded Egnatia Street. Despite the thousands of people present, participants created space, allowing the ambulance to move through smoothly. This act of cooperation highlighted the peaceful intentions of the gathering despite the large turnout.
The nationwide rallies included emotional memorial services held at key locations such as Tempi and Athens. These services were attended by the victims’ families and supported by a vast public presence, united under slogans like “Justice” and “I don’t have oxygen.” Participants called for continued pressure on government and legal authorities to address the causes of the accident and ensure justice for the victims’ families.
While the day began with peaceful commemorations, tensions in Athens escalated following speeches by the victims’ relatives. Groups, some wearing hoods, engaged in confrontations with police, resulting in the use of tear gas and flash bangs. Violence spread through central Athens, leading to extensive damage and arrests.
Although the atmosphere at the gatherings was emotionally charged from the very first hours, silence prevailed during the rallies, when extensive incidents occurred in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Specifically, while the gathering was in progress, after the speeches of the relatives of the victims, the center of Athens began to turn into a battlefield, when the hooded men took action, clashing with the riot police. According to ELAS spokesperson Konstantina Dimoglidou, the incidents were caused by people who were not grouped from the beginning. “When the speeches in the city center were completed, they grouped together, covered their features and then coordinatedly attacked the police forces,” she said.
At the same time, rioters picked up stones from the sidewalk outside a hotel and began throwing them at the police, while they threw dozens of Molotov cocktails and sparklers, with the police responding with tear gas and flash bangs. Some citizens found refuge inside the Parliament, as they had not had time to leave in time, while the Evzones were also transferred to the Parliament.
Authorities reported 220 arrests, of which 73 led to formal charges. Meanwhile, hospitals were prepared to manage the influx of injured protesters and law enforcement personnel.
The Tempi anniversary rally underscores the ongoing public demand for transparency and reform in Greece’s transportation sector, aiming to prevent future tragedies and bring closure to affected families.