Tension in Parliament

Tsipras had asked for the discussion to address allegations that the government has been interfering in the judicial process and to highlight corruption investigations. He did not make any new revelations during his speech though.

The premier asked for a parliamentary committee to be formed to investigate the bank loans that have been granted to political parties. He also noted that New Democracy owed almost 200 million euros.

Mitsotakis responded by pointing out that he has taken steps to reduce the conservative party’s debt and accused Tsipras of calling for the debate and the setting up of an inquiry in order to divert attention from more imminent challenges for Greece. In doing so, he held up a political cartoon showing a man picking someone’s pocket while convincing him to look the other way by saying, “Look over there – another scandal.”

“You want us to talk about corruption so we do not talk about the refugee crisis, unemployment and the economy,” said the conservative chief, before issuing his call for Tsipras and the rest of the government to step down.

“Greece cannot put up with you anymore,” he said. “If Parliament cannot provide a solution, let the people decide.”