Is Karystianou More of a ‘Mother’ Than the Other 56?

The answer is no. Clearly not. All 57 families of the Tempi tragedy victims are heartbroken, deeply grieving people whose lives have been forever marked by loss, devastation, and relentless pursuit of justice. Yet Maria Karystianou, mother of 21-year-old Marta Psaropoulou—who can be heard in the harrowing 112 call saying ‘I can’t breathe,’ seconds before dying—has become the symbolic mother of Tempi over the past three years. She stepped forward, demanded accountability, raised her voice, challenged authorities, and accused the current government of corruption and systemic failure. With unwavering determination, a steel-strong voice, and fiery rhetoric, she became the voice of many. The rallies marking the second anniversary drew record participation, with over a million citizens flooding Syntagma Square, many for the first time. They identified with her. As former president of the Association of Relatives of Tempi Victims, she spoke to their souls, mobilizing them toward one goal: justice for the open wound of Tempi. Karystianou never represented just herself—she embodied all the bereaved families. Supporting her meant supporting everyone who lost children, parents, or siblings. And she always spoke and acted on behalf of all, reflecting the collective stance—especially of those who didn’t initially oppose her leadership. However, her announcement to launch a political party, the demand from other association members for her to step down, and her subsequent resignation as president, led to a split. The unity of the Tempi movement has fractured, and internal conflict persists. It is fully respectful of Karystianou’s right to pursue justice through politics. Equally, it is the undeniable right of the other families to distance themselves and continue seeking justice through the courts. May love and unity return along the path ahead.