Greek Interior Minister Livanios Defends New Local Government Code, Cites Controversial Quote

Interior Minister Theodoros Livanios faced criticism in the Greek parliament over the draft Local Government Code, with PASOK leader Nikos Androulaki and MP Christa Staraka accusing the government of undermining local communities. Livanios avoided a direct response, instead using the debate to announce a technical amendment that would separate municipal fees from electricity bills.

When pressed about his silence, Livanios replied with the remark, “I prefer to die old and rich rather than poor and sick,” a statement that sparked further discussion in the parliamentary corridors. The episode highlighted tensions between the ruling New Democracy party and the opposition over the scope of local autonomy and fiscal responsibilities.