Opposition criticizes regional administration over tourism, infrastructure and development strategy in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace

Opposition figures in the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (EMT) have sharply criticized the annual report of Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis, raising concerns over tourism performance, infrastructure gaps, environmental challenges and what they describe as a lack of strategic development planning.

Kaggelidis Targets Tourism Revenue and Infrastructure Gaps

Damianos Kaggelidis, head of the “Together for Change” faction, took aim at the administration’s tourism policy, arguing that while visitor numbers are increasing, per capita spending remains stagnant.

He also pointed to coastal erosion affecting beaches in Kavala and Rhodope, warning that environmental degradation could undermine long-term tourism sustainability.

Kaggelidis further referenced the significant loss of sheep and goats due to recent outbreaks of sheep pox, stressing the economic toll on livestock farmers. He called for stronger flood-prevention projects and accelerated infrastructure implementation, highlighting in particular the road and rail isolation of Drama.

Call for Strategic Shift in Development Model

Regional Councillor Dimitrios Lyberakis, representing the “Independent United Initiative” faction, argued that the current administration is focused on day-to-day management rather than transforming the region’s strategic development model.

Lyberakis criticized what he described as a lack of structural development reforms and an emphasis on communication over measurable results. He proposed the creation of a comprehensive Productive Reconstruction Plan for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace to reshape the region’s economic trajectory.

Topsidis Responds to Opposition Criticism

Governor Topsidis responded firmly to opposition remarks, particularly addressing former regional governor Christos Metios.

“It is difficult for you to accept that the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace is moving forward without you,” Topsidis said, adding that he did not expect his predecessor to understand the current administration’s report.

“In the six years you exercised administration, you failed to understand even the organization you managed. That was reflected in practice,” he stated.

Topsidis also rejected what he called a slide into political toxicity, emphasizing that his administration would continue working “with data, transparency and results.”

“At the end of the day, Mr. Metios, the question is not who shouts louder, but who works more effectively,” he concluded.

The exchange highlights intensifying political tensions within the regional council as debates over development priorities, infrastructure investment and economic resilience continue across Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.