Greece stands on the brink of a major political decision as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis prepares to meet President Katerina Sakellaropoulou on Wednesday morning to discuss the selection of the nation’s next President of the Republic.
The high-profile meeting, set for 11:30 a.m. at the Presidential Mansion, is expected to serve as the catalyst for decisive developments.
Mr. Mitsotakis is anticipated to publicly commend Ms. Sakellaropoulou for her exemplary service and their smooth collaboration over the past five years.
Speculation suggests that the prime minister may announce his choice for the next president as early as Wednesday evening or Thursday.
The timeline for the announcement was finalized during a strategy session between Mr. Mitsotakis and his close advisors.
Despite swirling rumors, the prime minister’s team has remained tight-lipped about the final decision, fueling intrigue.
Among the names widely discussed in political circles are Mr. Evangelos Venizelos, a former minister with deep political experience, and Mr. Kostas Tasoulas, the current Speaker of the House.
Adding to the speculation, Mr. Mitsotakis made a pointed remark during a recent interaction with students at a vocational high school in Perama. Referring to a motto in his office, he said, “Gordian knots are not untied; they are cut. Sometimes bold and advanced solutions are necessary, even if they cause temporary upheaval or political cost.”
The statement has been interpreted as a potential signal of an unconventional or unexpected decision.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis has emphasized the significance of the upcoming announcement, stating, “At the end of the day, what matters is the prime minister’s choice and the rationale behind it.” He described the ideal candidate as someone who can unite the nation and command widespread respect.
Opposition parties are preparing for the political implications of the choice.
Pasok leader Mr. Nikos Androulakis has underscored the importance of selecting a progressive candidate and hinted at the possibility of Pasok proposing its own nominee if Mr. Mitsotakis chooses a different path.
The party’s strategy aims to ensure a progressive presence in the process, reflecting its broader ambitions in the political landscape.
Syriza has already endorsed Ms. Louka Katseli, emphasizing her capacity to unify progressive forces. Interim party leader Mr. Sokratis Famellos has praised Ms. Katseli’s credentials, describing her as an “ideal candidate for the Presidency of the Republic.”
This endorsement reflects Syriza’s efforts to consolidate support among left-leaning political factions.
The election process will involve parliamentary votes beginning February 13, with the new president expected to take office on March 13.
Should Mr. Tasoulas emerge as the nominee, he is likely to continue serving as Speaker of the House until formally elected. In such a scenario, senior New Democracy MP Nikitas Kaklamanis is expected to assume the role of Speaker.
As the clock ticks down, attention is focused on Mr. Mitsotakis and the direction he will take. His choice is poised to not only shape the country’s highest political office but also define the contours of Greece’s political discourse in the coming years.