The devastating fires of the last days not only left behind ashes and burnt areas, but also an explosive political climate. At the center is the effectiveness of the emergency notice number 112on the occasion of statements of Mayor Patras, Costas Peletidiswho lit fires on the political scene.
Mr. Peletidis argued that sending messages 112 without the presence of sufficient forces in the field is inadequate, characterizing the evacuation as a “term that came into our lives to avoid responsibilities”. He added that in many cases, residents who remained in their homes, along with firefighters and municipal forces, managed to protect their possessions.
Mayor’s statements caused the immediate reaction of the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil ProtectionYiannis Kefalogiannis, who described them as “criminal and dangerous”. The minister pointed out the hypocrisy of Mr Peletidis, as the municipality himself had called for the activation of 112 in previous cases, and concluded that, after the tragedy in Eye, he would not allow anyone to challenge a system that has proven to save lives.
On his side, Government spokesman, Pavlos MarinakisHe emphasized that “whoever speaks the heart against 112 let him repeat it in front of relatives of the victims of the eye”, stressing that the system is a “national conquest”.
Opposition lifts the glove
The opposition, on the other hand, is turning against the government, accusing it of lack of readiness and attempting to relocate responsibility. The KKE spoke of a “miserable attack” Against the Mayor of Patras with the aim of silencing government responsibilities, while SYRIZA through Mr Zachariadis commented in a caustic manner that “the only ones who are not to blame are the non -existent state.”
PASOK, through the Kostas Tsoukalahe raised questions about whether the government is satisfied with crisis management. Velopoulos (Greek solution) spoke of the “same fairy tale” and “criminal responsibilities”, while Alexis Haritsis (New Left) said that “the country needs oxygen” and the government of “burnt land” cannot offer it.
At the same time, Mr Natsios (Victory) praised the firefighters and volunteers who “save lives and possessions”, while the “inability of the state” leaves the country in flames. Finally, Zoe Konstantopoulou (Freedom Sun) spoke of “constant crime” and “inert justice”.
Political tension is expected to escalate in the next few days, as the report of fires will be the next battlefield for all parties.