From Parades to Politics: Prime Minister Sees Citizens “Turning Toward Stability”

“Citizens Gave the Answer – Turning Their Back on Pessimism”

Against the backdrop of October 28 celebrations, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis opened the Cabinet meeting, held via videoconference due to his mild COVID-19 symptoms. He focused on the smoothly conducted parades, noting that “citizens have sent a clear answer against toxicity.”

“The students who marched in Thessaloniki under the rain provide the best analogy for how we should proceed – disciplined and committed to duty,” he emphasized.

“Ending Lawlessness – A Fresh Start with AADE”

A key topic was the reform of OPEKEPE and its integration into the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), a move Mitsotakis called “necessary and decisive” to restore transparency in agricultural payments.

“It is a firm political decision to end lawlessness. We want a fresh start with transparency and reliability in managing European subsidies,” he stressed.

He also acknowledged delays in payments due to the transition but expressed optimism that “by the end of the year, the situation will have normalized.”

New Measures to Reduce Bureaucracy

On reforms, the Prime Minister announced a new set of measures to simplify bureaucracy, aiming for a more citizen-friendly and business-friendly state. “The digital state is delivering – gov.gr, digital pension services, and the hospital digital tracker are just the beginning,” he said, announcing the elimination of unnecessary certificates.

Firefighting Season: Fewer Burned Areas, Better Preparedness

Referring to the 2025 fire season, Mitsotakis emphasized that although Greece faced significant fires, “we managed to keep losses below the European average.” “473,000 acres burned — fewer than most Mediterranean countries. 97% of fires were detected and contained quickly,” he noted.

Road Safety: Fatal Accidents Down 50%

He highlighted the reduction in fatal traffic accidents during the October holiday period. “Fatal accidents fell by more than half compared to last year. The new Highway Code and the Traffic Police plan are paying off,” he said, underlining that changing driving behavior is now a national goal.

“Moving Forward Despite the Storms”

Closing his address, Mitsotakis returned to the symbolic image of students marching in the rain:“The students marching under rain show us the way. Despite difficulties and storms, we move forward with faith and stability. Nothing will take us off course.”