The debate between Dimitris Kairidis and Charis Doukas escalated following the statements made by New Democracy MP and the strong response from the mayor of Athens.
Kairidis’s harsh criticism of the mayor of Athens
A fierce political clash erupted between Dimitris Kairidis and Haris Doukas, following statements made by the former New Democracy minister during television appearances on ANT1 and Action 24, where he sharply criticized the Athens municipal government and the way in which PASOK provides political support to the mayor.
Mr. Kairidis described Mr. Doukas “a failed mayor,” arguing that PASOK has chosen to politically back a figure who, as he noted, had garnered only 14%. At the same time, he attributed the mayor’s election to specific political circumstances and the unique context of that particular race.
“PASOK has taken on a failed mayor of Athens and is trailing behind him. A mayor of Athens who, as candidate received 14%—let’s not forget that—and ended up in this position due to the circumstances,” he pointed out.
The New Democracy MP continued his criticism, arguing that the mayor should focus more on the city’s problems. As he noted, the center of Athens faces serious issues regarding daily life and its image, while accusing Mr. Doukas of choosing political confrontation over addressing municipal issues.
In fact, he characterized the mayor “a political nonentity” and “a nobody,” expressing the view that he would not be re-elected in the upcoming municipal elections.
Doukas’s response and the accusations of “fascism”
The response from Haris Doukas came via a social media post, in which he addressed extreme characterizations and a campaign to politically target him.
The mayor of Athens argued that those who disagree politically with the government are portrayed as “failures,” “marginal,” and “nobodies,” referring to the “fascistization of political life” by the government’s “elite.” At the same time, he made pointed remarks about “a coordinated campaign” behind the attacks he is facing.
Referring to the municipal government, Mr. Doukas argued that Athens is now on a different path, emphasizing that decisions made by the previous administration—such as the Grand Promenade and the projects on Queen Olga Avenue. As he noted, the city is “turning a new page” through the projects and initiatives being implemented by the current municipal administration.
The confrontation highlights the ever-increasing political tension between the government and PASOK, with Dimitris Kairidis insisting that the mayor of Athens should be judged primarily by his work in the city and not by the central political confrontation.
