The direction of the new government program, the measures for austerity, the regulation regarding “non-performing loans” and the political debate ahead of the 2027 elections were analyzed by the Deputy Prime Minister, Kostis Hatzidakis, speaking on ERT News, emphasizing that the goal is “ongoing national renewal” combined with stability and reforms.

The new program and its priorities through 2030

The Deputy Prime Minister made it clear that the goal is not a third term for its own sake, but rather serving the national interest. “We are not a sports club celebrating titles. The question is how we can best serve the national interest,” he noted, adding that the new program will be based on an assessment of the previous administration. “Without arrogance, let’s see what went well, what went wrong, keep the good things, and correct the mistakes.”

Among other things, he noted that the central focus is on:

  • the economy and productivity, through the use of artificial intelligence, research, and European funds
  • Social policy, with an emphasis on housing, family support, and demographics
  • Regional development and equal opportunities for all
  • Institutions and governance, aimed at strengthening trust in the state
  • Foreign policy, defense, and energy, with “responsible patriotism”

“New Democracy can combine the call for stability and security with the call for change.”

The arguments for a new term

Mr. Hatzidakis presented three main reasons why, as he said, citizens should vote for New Democracy again:

  • Economic performance, a reduction in unemployment, the creation of over 560,000 jobs, an increase in deposits from 136 to over 200 billion euros, a rise in investment and exports, debt reduction, etc.
  • Superiority in terms of “leadership” and “teamwork”
  • A realistic plan for the future

“New Democracy is and will remain the only party on which one can pin one’s hopes.”

Accuracy: measures and responses to criticism

Acknowledging the pressure on households, the vice president noted: “There is a problem. There are households that are struggling and cannot make ends meet,” while he outlined the measures that have been taken:

  • “Household Basket”
  • Special signage in supermarkets
  • Fines for price gouging
  • Wage increases (minimum wage raised from 650 to 920 euros)
  • “How Much Does It Cost?” platform for price transparency

He argued that inflation is primarily an international phenomenon and is close to the European average.

Regarding the VAT reduction, he replied: “A large portion of the reduction does not reach consumers, whereas reductions in direct taxes, by definition, go straight into their pockets.”

Opposition and the Political Landscape

Mr. Hatzidakis criticized the opposition parties, referring to “toxic attacks” and “populism,” as well as “far-fetched theories.”

“We are not going to promise more depending on who comes in second or third. No one should play games with Greece.”

Regarding the possibility of coalitions, he reiterated that the goal is a majority government, pointing out the deadlock resulting from the refusal of parties to cooperate.

Speculation about a new party led by Samaras

Referring to speculation about the creation of a new political party by Antonis Samaras, the Deputy Prime Minister kept his distance, noting that the final decision rests with the former prime minister himself.

““He will make his own decisions and weigh the matter thoroughly.” However, he warned of the potential political consequences of such a move, stating: “If he goes ahead with such a move, I believe it will cause some damage to New Democracy, but also to other parties, such as those of Mr. Velopoulos and Ms. Latinopoulou, but it will damage his political legacy.”

Mr. Hatzidakis emphasized the importance of unity within the center-right, noting: “I believe in a broad center-right bloc and in the unity of New Democracy, but this cannot be imposed.”

The Avramopoulos Case and Political Developments

Regarding the case of Dimitris Avramopoulos, he stated: “I don’t know the details, but there is a document from the European Commission, and he himself is requesting the lifting of his immunity. The truth will come to light.”

The regulation on “non-performing loans” and the Katseli Law

He made special mention of the new regulation for borrowers:

  • Reduction in “non-performing” loans from 44% to 3–4%
  • Reduction in private debt from 93 billion to ~68 billion euros
  • Settlements through an out-of-court mechanism amounting to nearly 20 billion euros

Regarding the new measure: “It affects approximately 100,000 of our fellow citizens and means debt relief amounting to tens of thousands of euros.”

The arrangement provides for interest not to be capitalized and for retroactive application for those already servicing loans. “We don’t just talk the talk; we walk the walk,” he added.

He emphasized, however, that a balance must be ensured, stating characteristically, “There are no first- and second-class citizens—consistent borrowers must also be taken into account.”

The Message for the Future

In closing, the Deputy Prime Minister set out the basic political framework: “We must remember what Greece went through over the past decade and act in a spirit of true patriotism and common sense.”

As he emphasized, the government’s strategy remains: “A steady course of reform, with responsibility and without excesses.”