File photo of the Greek Parliament in session. [InTime News]
Seeking to recalibrate a political climate that has weighed heavily on his government following the arrival of a new case file concerning the OPEKEPE farm subsidy scandal, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis outlined on Monday a post-election institutional reform aimed at separating ministerial and parliamentary roles.
The proposal, which would take effect after the 2027 elections, calls for establishing an incompatibility between serving as a minister and as a member of Parliament. Under the plan, any lawmaker appointed to the cabinet would be temporarily replaced in Parliament by the first runner-up candidate in their electoral district for the duration of their ministerial tenure.
The announcement, which drew criticism from opposition parties, formed part of what officials described as a second layer of crisis management following an April 3 cabinet reshuffle. Government officials indicated the initiative is intended to transform a difficult political moment into what the prime minister views as a “political opportunity.”
In recent days, sentiment within the prime minister’s office had increasingly coalesced around the need for Mitsotakis to take a more visible role and present a proposal demonstrating “political will” to counter a growing perception that corruption has become synonymous with the state.
The idea of separating the two roles had previously been discussed but not advanced. Two main considerations led to its revival: similar arrangements in other countries, including France, and the assessment that such a measure would be readily understood by the public.
Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said the proposal would be part of a broader constitutional revision debate requiring enhanced parliamentary majorities. He described the framework as aligned with the “French model,” involving suspension of parliamentary duties for ministers, who would return to their seats if they leave the cabinet.
He also raised the possibility of reducing the total number of lawmakers, noting such discussions remain preliminary and subject to public consultation after elections.
In his address, Mitsotakis urged the European Public Prosecutor’s Office to proceed swiftly with investigative actions regarding OPEKEPE and clarify whether prosecutions will follow.