Former Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis acknowledged on Wednesday that government arrogance has become widespread, warning that officials exercising power must exercise far greater caution.
Speaking during a Wednesday morning appearance on the Action24 television station, Bakoyannis addressed questions regarding whether arrogance was present within the ruling government.
He responded using a traditional Greek proverb indicating that while the public talks about government arrogance openly, officials treat it as a private point of pride. He stated that arrogance is unfortunately often connected to and identified with the exercise of power.
Bakoyannis added that everyone who has exercised power, including himself, must be two or three times more careful to avoid arrogant behavior.
Bakoyannis served as Mayor of Athens from September 2019 until December 2023, having previously held senior regional and municipal positions in Greece. The Municipality of Athens is the central administrative body overseeing public services and infrastructure in the Greek capital.
Possible return to Athens city hall
During the interview, Bakoyannis left open the possibility of contesting the Municipality of Athens again in the next local elections, though he emphasized that he has not reached a final decision.
He noted that two years remain before the next municipal election cycle takes place. He stated that he knows the city and its municipal administration very well, adding that governing Athens requires stomach, heart, and mind, attributes he believes are aligned in his case.
Bakoyannis underlined that returning to local politics would be a major personal decision that he needs to discuss thoroughly with his family before making any commitment.
Criticism of current city administration
Bakoyannis also criticized current conditions in Athens, asserting that the Greek capital is suffering from the direct consequences of indifference and abandonment.
He stated that what residents are currently experiencing across the city is the result of neglect and an underlying part time approach to running the municipal authority. He argued that some officials view the Municipality of Athens merely as a stepping stone to higher office, a temporary station, or a vehicle for achieving broader political ambitions.
According to Bakoyannis, conditions in Athens become progressively more difficult with every passing year. He concluded that managing the capital successfully requires a clear plan, proper organization, and above all, political willpower.
