Maximos’ ‘Reins’ for Kikilias and Georgiadis – The Dolphin Battles and Commitment to Overall Salary Increases

An effort is being made from Maximos Mansion to curb the debate that has been sparked, with the Ministers of Shipping Vassilis Kikilias and Health Adonis Georgiadis taking a stance against immediate salary increases for Armed Forces and Security Bodies. Within the ‘blue’ political alignment, discussions are lively regarding whether the positions taken by these ministers relate to the upcoming days of New Democracy (ND), in case there is no recovery in public opinion polls and questions arise about leadership succession within the party. While many believe that the stance of the two ministers signals readiness for an internal battle—irritated that the Minister of National Defense gained politically by announcing raises for military personnel—others question how Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis can be challenged while still in power. Despite this, most agree that while pay raises for the army are positive news, they were not communicated effectively within the party, leading to backlash from several MPs who feel neglected or concerned about their re-election prospects. Maximos Mansion, through Government Spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, emphasized that economic policy is determined under the guidance of the Prime Minister with fiscal criteria rather than media tactics. Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrikakis clarified that all possibilities will be exhausted for supporting uniformed personnel but within a structured framework. He also highlighted sensitivity towards police officers, firefighters, and harbormasters, ensuring support across the board. Amidst this climate, the ND parliamentary group meets Friday for electing the new Secretary of the Central Committee, with expectations of unity despite internal tensions.