Theodorikakos: ‘Transparency and accountability are our core values’

Transparency and accountability everywhere, for everyone and in all matters—this is my stance and that of the party I am honored to represent. Regarding Article 86 on ministerial responsibility, the Prime Minister himself has stated that the government aims to revise it in the next constitutional amendment,” said Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos in remarks to media today, responding to European Prosecutor Laura Codruta Kövesi’s call for legal reform. On recovering funds from unfulfilled investment projects, Theodorikakos emphasized: “When I took office, I found hundreds of millions of euros had been granted to companies that failed to deliver promised investments. We pledged to citizens we would recover this money. So far, €80 million has been reclaimed. Through action, we prove our commitment to transparency and accountability—it’s our duty to society. It’s a matter of honor to reclaim every last euro.” Referring to yesterday’s meeting with supermarket representatives, he stressed an ongoing effort to support households. “We’ve maintained consistent pressure on supermarkets through concrete initiatives, reflecting public demand to stabilize prices. They’ve committed to lowering prices on at least 1,000 product codes by mid-October. I urged them to expand this to more items and extend the period, possibly beyond Christmas. This will cover food, household supplies, and personal hygiene products, with reductions exceeding 5%.” On fines imposed by DIMEA and intensified market inspections, Theodorikakos clarified: “The law applies to all, regardless of turnover. If a minister intervened to halt a fine, that would be a clear breach of duty—which I would never do. We cooperate with the market, support healthy entrepreneurship, and recognize legitimate profits, but must uphold the law for consumers’ sake. Inspections will continue and apply universally.” He also announced that public consultation will soon begin on establishing a new Independent Authority for Consumer Protection and Market Oversight—staffed with 300 new inspectors, equipped with modern digital tools, and fully operational within six months. “Enforcement mechanisms are stronger than ever,” he added, including plans to codify and unify all consumer protection legislation into a single code.