Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has suggested a reform that would prevent government ministers from simultaneously holding positions as Members of Parliament. This proposal, set to be implemented after the 2027 general elections, mandates that any legislator joining the cabinet must temporarily give up their parliamentary seat. The vacant position would be filled by the next eligible candidate on the party’s electoral list for the duration of the minister’s term.
The reform initiative comes in the wake of an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) regarding the alleged misuse of European Union agricultural subsidies. Several former ministers have been reportedly implicated in the case files submitted to Greek authorities, as reported by Xinhua News Agency. Prime Minister Mitsotakis recently conducted a cabinet reshuffle, while the Greek parliament is expected to start procedures soon to revoke the immunity of 11 lawmakers linked to the investigation.
In a statement, Mitsotakis urged the EPPO to swiftly clarify the identities and number of individuals who might face prosecution once parliamentary immunity is lifted. He emphasized that those under investigation have the right to defend themselves, considering the significant personal and political consequences. The proposed reform is part of broader efforts to modernize the Greek state and enhance institutional transparency, with Mitsotakis aiming to lead Greece towards becoming a modern European nation by addressing longstanding systemic issues.
Over the past year, around twenty former ministers and parliament members affiliated with the ruling New Democracy party have been named in three criminal case files submitted by the EPPO. The investigation focuses on alleged mismanagement of farm subsidies between 2019 and 2021. Following the cabinet reshuffle, the main opposition party, PASOK-KINAL, has reiterated its call for early elections, as the current government’s term is set to conclude in June 2027.
