Dimitris Vartzopoylos, Member of Parliament for Thessaloniki B’ of the ruling New Democracy party, issued a statement following the archiving of his case by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), related to OPEKEPE (the Greek Payment Authority for Common Agricultural Policy Aid). Mr. Vartzopoylos stressed that “today’s archiving of my case by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office proves what I have said from the very beginning: It is a self-evident duty of a Member of Parliament to intervene with administrations and public services everywhere, to ask questions on behalf of his constituents, to try to correct what is wrong — especially when those citizens, as is often the case in our provincial regions, are vulnerable and powerless, quite literally with nothing to their name.”
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Vartzopoylos on OPEKEPE: “The goal was to damage reputations”
According to Mr. Vartzopoylos, “a preferential vote is not bribery. It is the very essence of democracy. It is the umbilical cord connecting the people to their representatives. It is a meaningful and effective tool for the proper and fair application of the law.
I cannot, however, fail to point out that this case, in its entirety, was the subject of systematic political exploitation. The target was not just me or my fellow MPs — the real target was the Prime Minister himself, the government, and our political party. The purpose was to damage reputations, to smear individuals, without evidence and without shame. Today’s development proves just how hollow that strategy was.”
“As for the four colleagues whose cases have been referred for prosecution, I am confident that they too will ultimately be vindicated, and that the judicial process will bring the full truth to light. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the citizens of Thessaloniki B’, who throughout this entire period have stood by me with trust and courage.
Their support has been my greatest comfort during this very difficult time. I therefore continue with the same dedication and resolve to serve my constituents and my country,” concluded Mr. Vartzopoylos.
