The return of MPs to Parliament brings an explosive autumn with hot political issues that will dominate the parliamentary agenda. Tension in Parliament is expected to escalate after the Thessaloniki International Fair, as cases and prosecutions come to the forefront that will shake up the political scene.
OPEKEPE 2 case comes to Parliament – At least 30 MPs implicated
Specifically, as reported by Yannis Politis for “Apogeumatini,” while OPEKEPE 1 closed with the establishment of an Investigative Committee under the presidency of Andreas Nikolakopoulos, all eyes now turn to the OPEKEPE 2 case file. The anticipated transfer to Parliament in the first weeks of autumn brings shocking evidence to light.
According to journalistic sources, the case file contains results from dozens of legal wiretaps that implicate more than 30 New Democracy MPs. The extent of the scandal may be even greater, as the involvement of other persons cannot be ruled out.
Recovery Fund under fire
Meanwhile, information is being strengthened about the transfer of a case file concerning serious irregularities in the management of Recovery Fund resources. Anna Diamantopoulou, head of political planning for PASOK, through her article titled “Reversal with a proposal,” posed the following question: “What did the government do with the hundreds of millions from the Recovery Fund intended for protection from natural disasters?”
Ms. Diamantopoulou, who is very careful in her public discourse when wanting to level specific accusations against the government, argues that it did not “fund specific prevention programs” nor invest “in organization and equipment at the regional level.” At the same time, she referred to specific project de-listings and noted that “whatever negative happens specifically in research is unfortunately under investigation.” This shows that PASOK is preparing for a harsh confrontation with the government.
Immigration and civil service discipline
Parliamentary activity begins immediately with the introduction of the Immigration bill in committees. The bill, which will be voted on September 2, has provoked strong reactions from the opposition. Simultaneously, the bill on Civil Service Discipline is being introduced, which has already sparked mobilizations by trade unionists and employee associations.
The Kikilia case in the spotlight
At the same time, this week the announcement in the Plenary of the criminal case file concerning Vassilis Kikilia regarding the Daniel storm is expected. These are lawsuits from 139 residents of Thessaly who were affected by the catastrophic storm of September 2023.
The case file is voluminous, includes thousands of pages, and constitutes the fourth Daniel-related case transferred to Parliament. The storm had cost the lives of 17 of our fellow citizens and caused extensive damage in:
• Volos and Southern Pelion
• Larissa and Karditsa
• Areas along the Pinios and other rivers
River overflows flooded entire settlements, destroying homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. To this day, residents of the affected areas continue their struggle for recovery.
Judicial Council for Karamanlis
Meanwhile, during a public session, the drawing of lots for the five-member Judicial Council for Kostas Ach. Karamanlis will take place. The Council, composed of three Supreme Court members and two Council of State members, has the ability to upgrade charges if new evidence emerges.
Additionally, a change to Parliament’s Rules of Procedure is pending, which will apply with the new parliamentary term, adding another element to the complex political landscape being shaped.
