Varoufakis argues that statements he made during an interview with young people were “meticulously and slanderously distorted” as part of what he describes as a “ten-year, systematic character assassination” against him by political figures and sections of the media. He stresses that this interview constitutes the sole basis for the formation of the case file and that its content does not give rise to “the slightest suspicion of the commission of any criminally punishable act”.

In his memorandum, Varoufakis maintains that the proceedings amount to an attempt to criminalise the expression of opinion, in violation of constitutional protections. He refers specifically to Article 14 of the Constitution and to paragraph 3 of Article 24 of Law 4139/2013, which states that the expression of an opinion or scientific judgement regarding drugs does not constitute an unlawful act.

He further states that, given his assessment that “both the truth and legal science are irrelevant” in this case, he chose not to request copies of the case file or a deadline to provide explanations. According to Varoufakis, this decision was taken in order not to facilitate what he characterises as a shameful instrumentalisation of justice.

Concluding his memorandum, Varoufakis expresses “grave concern” about the broader implications of the case. He warns that the ease with which justice can be used for political ends sends a dangerous message, constituting, in his view, a slide towards abuse of power and an effort to suppress lawful and legitimate public debate.

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