By Sotiris M. Juma
A decision with clear political and institutional messages was sent yesterday by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, announcing that the monument of the unknown soldier is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of National Defense, with the responsibility of guarding the Greek Police.
This move is not typical. It comes after months of shameful images of insulting the iconic point in front of the House, causing citizens’ indignation and a blow to the state’s prestige. By his current decision, the prime minister sends a clear message of determination and responsibility, “emptying” the spectacularly those who had to act earlier.
The first recipient, as they all show, is Attica Regional Governor Nikos Chardalias. The Region, through its competent services, had remained silent in front of the state that prevailed in the monumentallowing it to be depreciated. This oligarchy, as political observers commented, had conveyed the burden of responsibility to the government, causing discomfort and confusion in public opinion.
The second message is addressed to the Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, whose services were absent from the issue, apparently to avoid ideological or party friction with groups trying to “take the area”. There are a few who point out that the inertia of the ministry has allowed the prevalence of a regime of arbitrariness, with persons such as the trade union archaeologist Mr. Koutsouba to act almost as an informal principle.
The Mitsotakis decision essentially restores order. The monument, which is a sacred place of honor for those who fell in favor of homeland, returns to the responsibility of the institutional bodies of the state, where it really belongs. And at the same time, it sends the message that respect for national symbols is not a field of negotiation or political expediency.
At a time when the image and symbolic value play a decisive role, this initiative is not just administrative. It is a rehabilitation move of prestige and institutional seriousness – a reminder that respect for history is the obligation of all, regardless of position or political identity.