Greek Parliament approves new local government code and amends law Katseli loan provisions

The Greek Parliament voted to adopt a new Local Government Code that eliminates the second round of municipal and regional elections, moving to a single‑round system. The bill passed the relevant committee with the support of New Democracy, while SYRIZA, the Communist Party and the Freedom Movement voted against it. PASOK criticized the proposal as an attempt to manipulate voter outcomes. The reform, part of a 761‑article bill, also modernises many aspects of local administration and finances.

In a separate vote, an amendment to law Katseli concerning loan provisions was approved by New Democracy together with PASOK‑Kinjal and the Greek Solution party, while SYRIZA, the Communist Party and the Victory party abstained. The broader legislative package includes measures to tackle the energy crisis, tax and pension reforms, and changes to the oversight of gambling and public property companies.