Maria Karystianou presents new political program in Thessaloniki

Maria Karystianou, president of the political movement ‘Elpida gia ti Dimokratia’ (Hope for Democracy), presented the party’s comprehensive political program at the 90th Thessaloniki International Fair. The platform includes proposals for a unified defense doctrine between Greece and Cyprus, the establishment of a National Defense University, and a new national security strategy focused on active deterrence.

Key domestic proposals include the abolition of Article 86 of the Constitution regarding ministerial criminal liability, the separation of the judiciary from the executive branch, and the creation of a Constitutional Court. Regarding economic and administrative oversight, Karystianou proposed decoupling the Hellenic Agricultural Organization (OPEKEPE) from the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) to increase transparency.

The party faces internal challenges following the resignation of Thanasis Avgerinos and the departure of approximately 22 other members. Despite these setbacks and a decline in polling to 3.6%, Karystianou is focusing on a realistic program addressing the cost of living, taxation, housing crises, and demographic issues, which she labeled a ‘top national priority’.