Government faces backlash over blocked probe into EU subsidy scandal
Opposition parties had called for an inquiry into findings by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) implicating former ministers Makis Voridis and Lefteris Avgenakis in the so-called OPEKEPE scandal, which involves the mismanagement of agricultural subsidies. A proposal tabled by the PASOK party sought to examine a potential breach of trust, reportedly causing damages exceeding €120,000.
The ruling New Democracy (ND) party, however, used its parliamentary majority to block the investigation, sparking accusations of a cover-up. The vote became even more contentious due to the use of postal ballots by 75 lawmakers—an approach opposition parties described as unprecedented. According to parliamentary records, New Democracy had the lowest rate of postal voting at 22%, while opposition parties ranged from 27% to 55%.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis defended the decision, stating that the opposition had "withdrawn from a proposal it had submitted itself," and insisting that the government's majority remained intact throughout the process.
Parliament Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis also weighed in, asserting that the proceedings adhered to constitutional requirements.
In the secret ballot, 83 lawmakers voted against the motion to investigate. Government sources later suggested that the administration preferred to appear politically “damaged” rather than risk a formal inquiry that could prove more damaging if corruption allegations gained further traction.
