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The Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has appointed Makis Voridis, a former far-right student activist, to lead the migration ministry. This decision is part of a broader cabinet reshuffle aimed at addressing public dissatisfaction following the tragic train crash earlier in 2023, which resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries.
In a bid to improve flagging approval ratings, Mitsotakis placed Voridis, who identifies as a nationalist, in this critical role while also bringing in several younger officials to key positions, including the transport ministry.
This governmental reshuffle has been described as “a significant renewal” amidst unprecedented protests that have emerged following the rail disaster. The newly appointed transport minister, Christos Dimas, previously an academic in the UK, is tasked with overseeing vital safety improvements in Greece’s rail system, which have come under scrutiny since a passenger train collided head-on with a freight train on February 28, 2023, tragically claiming 57 lives.
Adding to the perception of rejuvenation, Kyriakos Pierrakakis, a well-regarded U.S.-educated computer scientist, takes the role in the finance ministry after serving in education. At 42 years old and from a center-left background, his appointment indicates a willingness to blend varied perspectives within the government, which is now in its sixth year.
Analysts suggest that Mitsotakis’ reshuffle serves dual purposes: addressing the rising frustration from his own New Democracy party supporters and reinforcing his coalition’s traditional conservative stance. Political commentator Yannis Koutsomitis expressed that this move signals a firmer approach to migration policy, designed to reassure both domestic supporters and international partners in Europe and the U.S.
Voridis, who has previously been seen brandishing an axe while pursuing leftist students, has a history linked to Greece’s far-right movements. He gained prominence as a leader in the youth wing of Epen, a party founded by Greece’s former dictator Georgios Papadopoulos, and he has maintained a narrative that views Muslim immigrants as a threat to societal cohesion in Greece, particularly within the context of the ongoing European refugee crisis.
The left-wing opposition party, Syriza, has criticized this cabinet change, labeling it “an insult to Greek society.” In a similar vein, the anti-racist organization Keerfa warned that Voridis’ appointment could lead to a hard-right shift in government policies, particularly regarding migration. They anticipate harsh deportation measures at a time when New Democracy is facing scrutiny over its alleged mishandling of the rail disaster.
The reshuffle followed the inauguration of Konstantinos Tasoulas as the country’s new president, succeeding Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the first female to hold this position in Greece. Once viewed as a political figure with considerable support, Mitsotakis has seen his popularity decline significantly. Although his government weathered a recent no-confidence vote, political experts suggest there is still room to rebuild public trust ahead of elections in 2027. However, many are skeptical that the recent cabinet changes will quell the ongoing public discontent. “It remains uncertain whether these adjustments will shift public perception or enhance governmental efficacy,” stated political analyst Costas Panagopoulos.
Source
www.theguardian.com