Karamanlis rules out presidential role
Former prime minister Kostas Karamanlis decisively ruled out any possibility of running for the presidency of Greece, following recent speculation fueled by ex-PM Antonis Samaras.
Speaking at a book presentation in Patra, Karamanlis emphasized, “While the suggestion honors me, I must clarify that the matter neither concerns nor interests me.”
Karamanlis also distanced himself from Samaras’ recent expulsion from the New Democracy party, subtly criticizing the move.
“Divergent opinions, even intense criticism, should not be demonized. Nor should they be dealt with through disciplinary measures, which only make the necessary national unity to support the national strategy more difficult,” he stated. His comments were widely interpreted as a veiled critique of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, suggesting the decision weakened the party’s cohesion.
Karamanlis’ clear stance simplifies the selection process for the presidency, potentially easing pressure on Mitsotakis from within his party.
However, some analysts view it as a sign of deepening rifts between Karamanlis and the current administration.
By removing himself from consideration, Karamanlis may be signaling his broader dissatisfaction with government policies, positioning himself as an independent political voice.
The former PM also reaffirmed his strong stance on key national issues.
He lambasted Turkey for raising “arbitrary and unfounded” claims, including those related to sovereignty and demilitarization of islands, emphasizing that such matters are firmly grounded in international law.
“Turkey and those international actors who encourage or tolerate these claims should forget them, as this highly demanding agenda requires strong armed forces, credible deterrent capabilities, an active multidimensional foreign policy, clear messages to all, and, above all, national unity and consensus,” he added.
Karamanlis further criticized Germany for failing to adequately acknowledge and address its wartime reparations obligations to Greece.
“It is not enough for [Germany] to recognize its responsibilities for the destruction it caused in Greece merely in words; it must also do so in deeds,” he stressed.
On broader European issues, he expressed concern over what he called “unrestrained rights movements” undermining traditional values and identity. Finally, he reiterated his call for peace in Ukraine, framing it as essential for global stability.
While Karamanlis’ measured tone pleased government circles, his remarks highlighted ongoing divisions within the center-right, underscoring the challenges of maintaining unity amid contentious debates on leadership and policy.
Stavros Papantoniou-Kathimerini
