Youth takes lead in new government lineup
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis unveiled a Cabinet reshuffle Friday, the largest of his tenure, bringing in younger officials, consolidating power at the prime minister’s office and adjusting key ministries amid ongoing political challenges.
The reshuffle follows four key themes: generational renewal, a streamlined governance structure, a stronger New Democracy (ND) party presence and a reset at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, which has faced intense scrutiny after the Tempe train disaster.
Mitsotakis promoted several ministers in their 40s, reflecting a generational shift. Kyriakos Pierrakakis (41) takes over as finance minister, Giannis Kefalogiannis (42) heads civil protection and Christos Dimas (45) leads the Infrastructure Ministry. Konstantinos Kyranakis (38) was named deputy minister of transport, while Domna Michailidou (38) takes over for social cohesion and family affairs.
The appointments build on Mitsotakis’ strategy of refreshing his administration. Government sources say the prime minister emphasized the need for younger leaders who can energize governance while delivering policy results.
In a significant move, former finance chief Kostis Hatzidakis was promoted to deputy prime minister, overseeing economic policy while coordinating with Pierrakakis. Akis Skertsos remains minister of state, managing social and institutional portfolios.
The changes aim to improve efficiency, reduce internal divisions and provide clearer oversight on key issues, officials said.
Mitsotakis strengthened ND’s influence in government by appointing veteran party lawmakers as deputy ministers. Among them are Kostas Vlasis (Education), Thanasis Davakis (Defense) and Giannis Lambropoulos (Citizen Protection).
However, centrist figures, including Michalis Chrysochoidis (Interior) and Lina Mendoni (Culture), remained in their roles. This signals Mitsotakis’ intent to balance party cohesion with broader electoral appeal.
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport saw a full overhaul in the wake of the deadly Tempe train disaster. Christos Staikouras, who had overseen railway operations, was removed entirely, with Christos Dimas taking his place. Kyranakis was promoted to deputy minister with direct oversight of railway reforms.
The government insists the reshuffle reflects accountability rather than political pressure, aiming for structural improvements in the transport sector.
With 10 new ND lawmakers joining the Cabinet, Mitsotakis is reshaping his administration for stability while positioning his party for the next election cycle.
Kathimerini
