Government Restricts ‘Give Everything’ Approach Amid Rising Pressures

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has sent a stern message that the government will not tolerate requests based on the logic of ‘give everything.’ As New Democracy faces declining poll numbers, pressures to open the purse strings are mounting. The government aims to prevent an uncontrollable situation. The Prime Minister maintained a firm stance against Ministers Vasilis Kikilias (Shipping) and Adonis Georgiadis (Health), who sought pay raises for security forces similar to those given to the armed forces. Around 10 MPs publicly supported this view, with more willing to sign related inquiries. While the PM reprimanded the ministers, he avoided confronting MPs directly ahead of Friday’s cabinet meeting. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis emphasized that ministers must adhere to collective decisions and that economic policy is defined by the PM and his economic team. Despite dissatisfaction from some quarters, Mitsotakis praised Defense Minister Nikolaos Dendias for achieving savings to fund military pay increases. Concerns persist about Dendias overshadowing others in leadership positioning, partly encouraged by the PM. Meanwhile, tensions remain between Mitsotakis and Georgiadis, with the latter feeling slighted by the cancellation of a planned visit to the Health Ministry. Additionally, disputes within other political parties highlight internal struggles and criticisms.