Three years after Tempi: Nationwide commemorations as trial approaches
Three years after Tempi: Nationwide commemorations as trial approachesToday marks three years since the Tempi tragedy, in which 57 people lost their lives, prompting nationwide commemorations. The trial for the case is set to begin on March 23 at the Three-Member Felony Court of Appeal of Larissa.
Commemorative events are taking place across Greece, with major gatherings in Athens and Thessaloniki. At Syntagma Square, relatives of the victims, labor unions, student groups, and other associations will speak to honor the memory of the young victims. Pavlos Aslanidis, President of the Association of Victims’ Relatives “Tempi 2023,” is expected to address the crowd, alongside the unveiling of a memorial monument in Kaisariani listing the victims’ names.
Maria Karystianou’s participation remains uncertain. While she encouraged attendance via a video message, it is unclear whether she will speak at the Syntagma rally, where the program and speakers’ order have already been finalized.
In Thessaloniki, a similar event will be held at the Venizelos Statue in Aristotelous Square, including speeches from victims’ relatives and a march through the city center.
Pavlos Aslanidis emphasized the need for a peaceful rally, calling on participants to avoid violence, vandalism, and political exploitation of the tragedy.
In Larissa, the epicenter of the accident, commemorative gatherings and strike protests are taking place with the participation of local unions, professional associations, student groups, and citizens, demanding justice, improved transport safety, and accountability for policies that contributed to the tragedy. A central gathering is scheduled at Larissa’s Central Square at noon, followed by a memorial service at the Tempi collision site at 1:00 p.m., where wreaths have been laid and a minute of silence will be observed. A commemorative concert is planned in the evening.
In the days leading up to the anniversary, citizens left flowers, candles, and handwritten messages at OSE Square, creating a space of quiet tribute to the victims.
The upcoming trial, expected to be lengthy due to the complexity of the case and the number of defendants and witnesses, is seen as crucial for assigning responsibility and fully investigating the circumstances behind the collision.
