Two weeks without potable water
According to Spartakos, the issue began on Monday, 16 September, when the September Infantry Recruitment started at KEPV Thebes. Despite being aware of water quality problems, the authorities allegedly continued to supply soldiers with non-potable water until Friday, 27 September, when the use of the water was finally prohibited.
“In any other state, a prosecutor would have intervened,” stated Spartakos, highlighting that the soldiers were forced to rely on this unsafe water source for 14 days, and stressing the potential public health risks. “Officers knew that KEPV Thebes’s water system had issues but did nothing,” the network added, pointing to what they claim is a culture of negligence within the military leadership.
Accusations against the military leadership
Spartakos didn’t shy away from pointing fingers at the higher echelons of the Greek military, notably criticising Defence Minister Nikos Dendias. The group accused him of being preoccupied with other military commitments – such as sending weapons to Ukraine and engaging in international operations – while neglecting the basic needs of soldiers at home. “The General Staff of the Army (GES) did nothing either,” the network said, questioning the role and effectiveness of military inspections, which it described as failing to ensure even “decent conditions” for the influx of new recruits.
Dire conditions and health concerns
The network painted a disturbing picture of life at KEPV Thebes. Following the water prohibition, each soldier was given just one bottle of water, expected to last until work on the water system began. “How will 1,350 soldiers drink, brush their teeth, shave, bathe, or even flush the toilets?” Spartakos asked, highlighting that the lack of water had led to unsanitary conditions, with toilets reportedly overflowing.
The group also raised concerns about the spread of illness, noting that the coronavirus was already affecting soldiers due to overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The treatment of those already unwell in military medical facilities was described as “the worst position of all,” with little to no care provided.
Financial burden on soldiers
The Spartakos Network further criticised the military for expecting soldiers to buy their own drinking water and supplies, despite their meagre monthly wage of just €8.70. “What about those soldiers who can’t afford to buy water?” they asked, highlighting the economic hardship faced by many conscripts.
In a particularly damning statement, Spartakos described the centre as a “ticking health time bomb,” and criticised the absurdity of military leadership when soldiers were reportedly given nothing but boiled sausages and potatoes to eat. The situation became so dire that the soldiers were allegedly sent out to local hotels to wash and to shops to buy their own water and food.
Calls for action and accountability
The Spartakos Network has called for mass protests from soldiers and their families, urging them to take legal action against the authorities. They have offered free legal assistance to any soldier or family member willing to take a stand.
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