The Greek government has announced a limited cabinet reshuffle following recent developments in the European Union agricultural subsidy scandal and multiple case files submitted to Parliament.
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| Corrupted Greek politicians (Illustration) |
High-Profile Resignations Requested by Prime Minister
Minister of Rural Development and Food Kostas Tsiaras, Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Giannis Kefalogiannis, and Deputy Minister of Health Dimitris Vartzopoulos have resigned, reportedly at the request of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Kostas Skrekas, Secretary-General of the ruling New Democracy party, has also stepped down.
European Public Prosecutor Investigates OPEKEPE
The resignations follow the submission of a third file by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) to the Greek Parliament, concerning OPEKEPE, the agency responsible for distributing agricultural subsidies. Allegations include misuse of funds, false declarations, and system manipulations. Parliament is expected to rule soon on lifting immunity for 11 current New Democracy lawmakers, while nine additional conservative legislators, including a former agriculture minister and deputy minister, are also under investigation.
Cabinet Changes and New Appointments
Margaritis Schinas, a former European Commissioner, has been appointed Minister of Rural Development, while Evaggelos Tournas assumes the role of Minister of Civil Protection. Makarios Lazaridis has been named Deputy Minister of Rural Development. The reshuffle is seen as Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ effort to signal zero tolerance for cases that raise doubts or carry political costs.
Wider Political Context in Greece
These developments occur amid rising criticism of the conservative government from opposition parties. In addition to the subsidy scandal, the administration faces scrutiny over wiretapping issues, a tragic railway accident, and increasing costs of fuel, food, and housing, which have affected citizens’ daily lives. The situation also draws attention from neighboring countries in the Balkans, including Albania and Kosovo, as regional economic and governance issues remain closely watched.
Oculus News will continue to follow this developing story.