Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is preparing to unveil a surprise measure at the annual Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF) next weekend, as his government seeks to reverse a downward trend in opinion polls and reassert its narrative of political stability.

Tightrope Between Cost and Impact

Government officials have kept the measure under strict secrecy. Despite earlier announcements this year — including raises for uniformed officers and a €250 allowance for pensioners — the economic team is working to keep the overall package modest in fiscal cost while maximizing political and communication gains.

Officially, the government says the cost will be just above €1.5 billion, but insiders acknowledge it will likely climb higher once tax relief for the middle class and incentives for families with children are factored in.

Rebuffing Opposition Proposals

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis recently dismissed opposition proposals for a 13th pension and 13th salary for public servants, each estimated to cost €1.5 billion annually. Officials admit the need to raise pensions and public-sector wages, but details — such as whether to fully eliminate the so-called “personal difference” that suppresses many pensions — remain unclear until Mitsotakis’ speech.

‘No Money, No Honey’

A senior government figure, commenting on the prime minister’s visit to Thessaloniki with half his cabinet last week, noted: “At Maximos Mansion, they know well the American saying, ‘no money, no honey.’” The government is expected to scrape together resources to boost its polling numbers, which have sunk to their lowest in years.

Political Stability vs. Fragmentation

In previewing his message, Mitsotakis is expected to stress that political stability comes only through single-party governments. He contrasted Greece’s fiscal surpluses with France’s deficits and political deadlock, warning against fragmented systems. Analysts saw this as a possible hint at future changes to Greece’s electoral law — a recurring subject of speculation, despite past denials.

Polls After TIF

Recent surveys put New Democracy in first place but with support near 20% in voting intention, translating to barely 25% after allocation. This hovers at the threshold for gaining the parliamentary bonus seats awarded to the leading party, far below the majority needed for outright dominance.

Any change to the electoral system would only take effect in subsequent elections, leading some party members to caution against moves that could backfire. For now, the focus is on whether Mitsotakis’ TIF appearance will give his party the polling lift it urgently needs.