As the political calendar for 2025 begins to unfold, all eyes are on Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is expected to reveal his choice for the country’s next President of the Republic in the coming days.
A meeting at the Maximos Mansion today is set to provide Mr. Mitsotakis' team with their first substantive indications of the candidate he will propose for Greece’s highest constitutional role.
This decision, anticipated with intense interest, will set the tone for the year’s political agenda.
Sources suggest Mr. Mitsotakis is likely to announce his decision between January 15 and 20, with the parliamentary election process commencing soon after.
The objective is to conclude the procedure by late February, even if all five rounds of voting required by the Constitution are needed.
The Prime Minister's choice is expected to balance two key priorities: securing broader political consensus and preserving internal unity within his New Democracy party. The considerations are complicated by the shifting parliamentary landscape. In 2019, current President Katerina Sakellaropoulou was elected with an unprecedented 261 votes, but replicating that level of support under current conditions is seen as unattainable.
Officials acknowledge that no potential candidate can likely secure the 200 votes required for a first- or second-round victory. Instead, they consider achieving the 180 votes necessary in the third round a more realistic goal.
The reelection of Ms. Sakellaropoulou is regarded as increasingly unlikely.
Pasok and Syriza, both of which supported her in 2019, are now signaling their opposition, citing a shift in political dynamics.
While some argue that re-nominating Ms. Sakellaropoulou would simplify the process by avoiding the need for a new justification, others see this as a lost opportunity for broader consensus and strategic renewal.
Among the names under consideration, Evangelos Venizelos has emerged as a strong contender. A prominent figure from the Center-Left, Mr. Venizelos is regarded as a candidate who could bridge partisan divides.
Analysts point to his extensive political experience and contributions during Greece’s financial crisis as assets that bolster his candidacy. Polls reportedly indicate that Mr. Venizelos commands significant cross-party support among the electorate, further strengthening his position as a unifying figure.
Another leading name is Mr. Yannis Stournaras, the Governor of the Bank of Greece. Widely respected for his economic expertise and international recognition, Mr. Stournaras also brings political experience from his tenure as Finance Minister during the New Democracy–Pasok coalition government. His credentials as a capable technocrat make him a formidable choice in a period marked by economic challenges.
Former interim Prime Minister Lucas Papademos has also been floated as a possibility. Admired for his stewardship during Greece’s financial crisis, Mr. Papademos is a figure whose reputation transcends party lines.
However, reports suggest that other names, including Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, have lost traction due to limited political support.
Despite the speculation, those familiar with Mr. Mitsotakis' decision-making caution against premature conclusions.
The Prime Minister has a reputation for keeping his cards close to his chest, often surprising both allies and opponents with unexpected choices. His 2019 selection of Ms. Sakellaropoulou, which remained under wraps until the eleventh hour, is a case in point.
As the countdown begins, Mr. Mitsotakis’ nomination for President of the Republic will be more than just a political decision.
It will reflect his vision for the future of Greek governance and his ability to navigate a complex web of party dynamics, public expectations, and institutional responsibilities. For Greece, the choice will set the stage for a year defined by unity, stability, and a focus on progress.
By Yiannis Kantellis