In a heartfelt weekly address, former Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis acknowledged the profound impact of the Tempe tragedy, marking its two-year anniversary with a call for truth, justice, and significant reforms in Greece’s infrastructure and public safety.
Mitsotakis praised the large turnout of peaceful demonstrations held across the country last Friday, which highlighted the nation’s collective demand for justice for the Tempe victims and a call for a safer and more efficient transportation system. In Athens alone, the protests gathered around 200,000 attendees, with tens of thousands more rallying in cities all across Greece. The Prime Minister lauded the demonstrations as a testament to the strength and awareness of Greek society, noting that people of all ages participated in the events.
In Athens, powerful speeches were delivered on a megatron, including messages from the parents of the victims who called for justice and expressed their anger. Maria Karystianou, the mother of one of the victims and president of a group representing the victims’ families, poignantly stated, “Our pain has spilt over and become momentum. We realize the depth of this rot. Every day the specter of corrupt power appears before us.”
The Prime Minister emphasized the critical need for tangible steps to improve the country’s infrastructure, particularly the Greek Railways, calling for modernized systems and rigorous safety regulations. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the Athens-Thessaloniki rail line meets high safety standards by 2027, stating, “This is a personal commitment.”
Mitsotakis also addressed recent findings by EODASAAM, which highlighted systemic failures leading to the tragedy. He stressed that these findings underline the need for swift and comprehensive reforms, calling for improved state functioning that goes beyond mere rhetoric.
In his address, he urged citizens to trust the judicial process, emphasizing that only the judicial system has the duty and capacity to uncover the truth and deliver justice. Mitsotakis also commended law enforcement for managing demonstrations professionally and preventing violence.
Concluding his address, Mitsotakis reflected on the broader responsibilities of the state and reiterated his long-standing commitment to overcoming challenges within the political landscape. “This is a confrontation I’ve been having for 21 years in my political career,” he stated. “I know I won’t win every battle, but I’m determined to win the war.”
Further discussions on the government’s plans and reforms are expected to be held in Parliament next week, as the nation continues its path toward healing and progress. Mitsotakis ended his message with a traditional greeting, wishing everyone a meaningful Lent.