Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis admitted that passing legislation via last-minute amendments is far from ideal, but argued that this particular change improves transparency and helps clarify certain legal grey areas.

The amendment revises a 2003 law which barred politicians – such as the PM, MPs, ministers, regional governors and mayors – as well as their close relatives (spouses and first-degree relatives) from holding any interest in companies based abroad. Under the new rules, this category of “related persons” has been removed, meaning relatives of politicians can now legally take part in companies based abroad, without legal consequences.

Opposition outrage

The move sparked strong backlash from opposition parties. Dimitris Mantzos, parliamentary representative for PASOK-KINAL, condemned the decision to introduce the amendment overnight, calling it wholly unacceptable and lacking a clear rationale. He argued that such tactics undermine both the legislative process and the role of Parliament.

Christos Giannoulis of SYRIZA agreed, describing the government’s habit of tabling last-minute amendments as a daily occurrence that diminishes Parliament’s authority.

Nikos Karathanassopoulos, representing the Greek Communist Party (KKE), questioned whether the amendment might serve specific individuals, noting that similar methods have been used by previous governments as well.

The issue continues to dominate political discussion, with opposition parties raising serious concerns about the potential implications of this legislative change.

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