Mitsotakis and opposition parties clash over Triantopoulos’ waiver of parliamentary immunity
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and opposition parties have clashed over former minister Christos Triantopoulos’ decision to waive his parliamentary immunity and request that a parliamentary committee refer him directly for trial regarding his alleged role in the mishandling of the Tempe railway disaster site.
Following Triantopoulos’ announcement, Mitsotakis took to social media to commend the former minister for his decision, accusing opposition parties of acting out of partisan motives.
“It is a bold step without modern precedent,” he said, adding that this move will allow the investigation of the allegations without them being entangled in political conflicts.
Opposition parties, however, dismissed Triantopoulos’ request, arguing that he is attempting to bypass public scrutiny and avoid examination by opposition MPs.
In a statement, main PASOK opposition warned that any trial of Triantopoulos must follow constitutional procedures.
“Mr Triantopoulos will be referred to a judge,” the socialist party said. “However, he must be referred in accordance with what the Constitution and the laws dictate, not in a way that suits New Democracy.”
Leftist SYRIZA also criticized Triantopoulos’ move, saying that he does not have the right to choose who will judge him and that opposition MPs will not be silenced.
“We cannot accept the silencing of MPs and political parties. Parliamentary scrutiny must come first. They must explain and be held accountable. No more cover-ups.”
Kathimerini
