A heated political debate unfolded on a Greek morning show as representatives from the ruling New Democracy party, PASOK, and SYRIZA exchanged views on the economic impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Central to the discussion was the surge in prices affecting households and businesses across the country.
Opposition Calls for Immediate Support
PASOK spokesperson Kostas Tsoukalas criticized the government’s previous policies, highlighting the risk of oil and natural gas supply disruptions. He argued that the state must urgently support households and businesses, noting that the cost of energy is disproportionately high compared to Greece’s purchasing power.
“Despite the Prime Minister’s statements about tackling the new wave of price increases with past determination, the government has failed to control inflation and rising costs,” Tsoukalas said, calling the current administration the “most unsuccessful in Europe regarding price control.”
SYRIZA lawmaker Giorgos Karameros echoed concerns about delayed action, linking fuel price hikes to both the war and profiteering. He proposed an immediate reduction of the special consumption tax on fuels, suggesting a mechanism to adjust the tax in line with Brent crude prices, a measure he says would stabilize fuel costs.
Government Response: Regulatory Interventions and Market Oversight
The government, represented by Deputy Labor Minister Kostas Karagounis, defended its approach, promising regulatory interventions to support households and businesses. Karagounis also emphasized intensified market inspections to combat price gouging.
“There will be interventions where excessive practices are identified, primarily regulatory measures. We have a history of such actions when similar problems arose,” he said, adding that financial support for consumers will be prioritized alongside rigorous monitoring of the market.
