Economy Minister Kyriakos Pierakakis responded in Parliament to PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis, who had launched a personal attack against him. During his speech, Pierakakis reiterated that the government—not the Supreme Court’s ruling—is introducing retroactivity for ‘red’ (non-performing) loans, clarifying that the Areios Pagos decision did not mention such retroactivity.
A personal rebuttal
Concluding his remarks, Pierakakis said: ‘Let me close with a personal observation. I’ve been a member of New Democracy since 2015—and I’m exceptionally proud of that. I’m equally proud to serve in this government precisely because it doesn’t need to resort to the populist measures you and your parliamentary group routinely cite. That is, in fact, a collective achievement of Greek society and the Greek state. I read your proposals carefully—and adopt those that make sense. But, Mr. Androulakis, allow me to say that, at times, your rivalry with Mr. Tsipras makes me feel you’re ready to storm the Mint. There’s an excess here—I understand it politically, but not governationally. It’s a mistake, and I believe you shouldn’t insist on it.’
Clash over historical responsibility
In reply, Androulakis retorted: ‘Claiming today that the freedoms you now enjoy are the result of ND’s policies since 2019 isn’t rewriting history—it’s spitting on it.’ He added: ‘If you now serve the few rather than the many, that’s your choice—and your shame.’
He also stressed: ‘During the difficult years of tough negotiations, our priority was always to protect borrowers.’