Strategic Dilemma for ND Regarding Karamanlis: Could Negligence Lead to Jail Time?

Recent developments could be titled ‘The Timeline of a Foretold Prosecution,’ implicating former Transport Ministers Kostas Karamanlis and Christos Spiritz. Information previously reported by NEWSIT has been confirmed. The prosecution document, now in parliament, details the actions of former Transport Ministers Karamanlis and Spiritz concerning the Tempi train collision. The document spans from January 1, 2016, to February 28, 2023, when the train collision occurred. Parliament President Nikitas Kaklamani will inform the assembly tomorrow, after which members can review the document in a secure room without taking notes. All parties agree that they must first review the contents before deciding on further legal action. However, decisions may already be predetermined. The key question is whether the document substantiates criminal negligence or mere incompetence. Two officials from the Ministry of Transport testified that political leadership was aware of the poor state of the railway network. Legal violations are being investigated, including ‘breach of railway safety with fatal consequences due to lack of supervision.’ This constitutes a criminal offense. For ND, matters are more complex. According to initial assessments, prosecuting Karamanlis for criminal negligence seems far-fetched. A second proposal for preliminary investigation exists, but opinions differ. If opposition pushes for criminal charges against Karamanlis, ND might counter-propose charges of negligence. Yet, proving negligence against Karamanlis might also prove challenging legally. Conviction for 57 lives lost could lead to a cumulative sentence of 4-5 years. The government faces a difficult decision regarding the statute of limitations for such offenses. Meanwhile, former SYRIZA Minister Christos Spiritz’s accountability remains debated. Additionally, an electrical blackout in Valencia disrupted Taso Hatzipavliou’s trip, highlighting infrastructure vulnerabilities. Former President Sakellaropoulou dined amicably at a tavern, while the film ‘Conclave’ sparked discussion during the papal election period.