Government Deputy President, Kostis Hatzidakis, is a guest of Thanasis Fouskidis on the Black Box vidcast, on the opening day of the New Democracy congress. Mr. Hatzidakis, referring to the New Democracy congress, emphasized that it is an opportunity for an evaluation of the progress and work done by the ND government so far, as well as to conduct necessary self-criticism. “It’s important to discuss the next day’s agenda at this year’s congress,” Mr. Hatzidakis characteristically noted. “Obviously we will showcase our significant work, but we don’t want a vote of gratitude, but one of realistic hope and prospects,” he added.
Regarding the second term of New Democracy’s governance, Mr. Hatzidakis mentioned that there may be a false impression that no reforms were implemented, however this is not true. “Interventions were made that we had been discussing for decades without implementation, such as non-state universities, and there is significant interest from foreign private universities,” emphasized the government’s deputy president. The second major reform was the significant intervention in limiting tax evasion.
Hatzidakis: Party unity is everyone’s responsibility
Mr. Hatzidakis also referred to former Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis’s absence from the New Democracy congress. “His absence doesn’t strengthen the message of unity. I believe we need everyone. So it’s not very honest to pretend we don’t care. Party unity is everyone’s responsibility,” he emphasized. Meanwhile, regarding the creation of a party by Antonis Samaras, the government’s deputy president emphasized that the former prime minister has made his decisions.
Referring to statements and complaints from “blue” MPs about the administrative state, Mr. Hatzidakis pointed out that they are right about many of their complaints. He even said that he himself has periodically criticized the party, but clarified that “we’re all in the same boat.”
Referring to OPEKEPE, he said “New Democracy is paying a political cost and that’s why we must see our mistakes, reflect, and move forward.”
“Our obligation is to maintain an attitude of honesty with the people and be present for our country and our children.”
When asked about the issue of political favors, Mr. Hatzidakis replied “there’s no MP who hasn’t taken a phone call for a voter.”
“No one cares more than me about my private sphere”
Mr. Hatzidakis also addressed the surveillance issue.
“Things didn’t function well at all regarding wiretapping, it’s obvious. Responsibilities have been assumed and two officials resigned. No one cares as much as I do about my private sphere,” he commented regarding the wiretapping and added that the Justice system is investigating the matter.
The government’s deputy president also addressed Alexis Tsipras’s return, saying that while he’s not a prophet, he believes that given how PASOK is conducting politics, Alexis Tsipras appears likely to be in second place.
In closing, Mr. Hatzidakis spoke about his family, saying he tries to “cut” political and party time to be able to spend time with his child.
Watch the Black Box vidcast with Kostis Hatzidakis:
