Athens Mayor Haris Doukas spoke on Monday about the ongoing dispute with the government regarding the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, sending a clear message: “Good luck and see you in court” to government officials.
In an interview with Open, Doukas stated that he is personally targeted because he insists that it is wrong to erase the names of the 57 victims of the Tempi tragedy. “The government is targeting me personally. The names must remain until justice is served,” he said. He also described the government’s amendment as unconstitutional, emphasizing that the names are a “red line.”
Monuments and Symbolism
Doukas highlighted:
“The Unknown Soldier gave his life not for silence, but for freedom. These monuments are not only for anniversaries and ceremonies but to stand with the people and society, symbolizing struggle, strength, passion, and at times, defiance.”
Analysis: The mayor emphasizes that citizens’ connection to monuments is not purely ceremonial. Monuments act as symbols of social struggle and political defiance, especially when the government seeks to bypass justice or alter historical records.
Political Stance and Dialogue
When asked about his broader political role, Doukas stated:
- “I am PASOK, I express my opinions and fight for political change in the country.”
- He stressed there is no plan for coalition with ND and advocates dialogue with progressive forces, including Tsipras, Famellos, Charitsis, or Kokkalis.
- He warned about party members who frequently “hug ND”, creating confusion about PASOK’s political message.
“PASOK has a duty to be clear to everyone: no coalition with ND,” the mayor emphasized, underlining the need for political stability and clarity.
Analysis and Conclusion
Doukas’ statements combine political challenge to the government with a cultural and historical message: monuments are not mere ceremonial spaces but reminders of freedom and active citizen engagement. His clear political stance signals that PASOK must maintain strict boundaries against coalition proposals with ND, preserving the coherence of the progressive political line.
Πηγή: pagenews.gr