
Opposition Slammed Over MP Immunity Vote
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis described Tuesday as "one of the darkest pages in our parliamentary history," criticizing opposition parties for their stance during a vote on lifting the immunity of 14 New Democracy MPs, CE Report quotes Athens-Macedonia
The MPs in question, part of a committee investigating former deputy minister Christos Triantopoulos’ role in handling the Tempi train crash site, faced accusations including high treason and abuse of power. The charges stem from a lawsuit by a victim’s mother, who objected to the committee's expedited vote to refer Triantopoulos directly to justice.
Despite the severity of the charges, opposition parties PASOK, SYRIZA, KKE, and Nea Aristera abstained, while Elliniki Lysi, Niki, and Plefsi Eleftherias voted in favor of lifting immunity. The ruling majority ultimately rejected the motion.
Marinakis reminded that Article 61 of the Constitution protects MPs from prosecution over votes cast in Parliament, calling the opposition’s stance reminiscent of extremist populism. He urged PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis to reconsider ahead of next week’s plenary debate.