Two former Greek ministers appeared in person before the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) on Thursday as part of an ongoing investigation into the OPEKEPE agricultural subsidies case, insisting they acted lawfully and denying any financial harm to the Greek state.
More than 50 other individuals under investigation have been granted until June 5 to submit written explanations through their legal representatives.
Former Ministers Reject Allegations
Former Justice Minister Kostas Tsiaras personally attended the proceedings, stating that he chose not to rely solely on a written submission and expressing confidence that the evidence would prove his innocence.
“I am appearing in person because I believe my memorandum will demonstrate all the facts regarding my innocence and that there was no damage to the Greek state,” he said, adding that he trusts the Greek judicial system.
Former minister Notis Mitarachi also appeared without requesting additional time, saying he had acted within the law and wanted the case resolved as quickly as possible.
“I have committed no illegal act. I have acted within the framework of the Constitution and the law,” he said, expressing confidence in both the institutions involved and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Defense Cites Report on Alleged Losses
Their lawyer, Michalis Dimitrakopoulos, who also represents lawmaker Katerina Papakosta, referred to a report prepared by an adviser to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office.
According to the lawyer, the report assessed the alleged financial damage in the case involving Papakosta at €7,000, while the alleged loss connected to Mitarachi was listed as zero.
Prosecutors to Decide Next Steps
Attention is now turning to the decisions that will be made after all written explanations have been submitted.
European delegated prosecutors Popi Papandreou and Dionysis Mouzakis will review the evidence and the responses provided by those under investigation before determining the next stage of the case.
Their assessment will decide which individuals, if any, will face criminal prosecution and which parts of the case file may ultimately be closed without further action.
