Doukas and Dendias exchanged jabs: who is responsible for the cleanliness of the walls of parliament?

Greek Ministry of National Defense promptly responded to the comment of the mayor of Athens Haris Doukaswho previously stated “Good luck» regarding care Memorial to the Unknown Soldier.

In an official statement, the ministry emphasized that it would not allow “downplay the importance of a place of memory and honor to those who fought for the nation and Fatherland“

“We cannot allow the degradation of the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier,” – the message says, which also reminded that under Article 102 of the Constitution and according to the current law responsibilities for cleaning and maintaining public spaces are assigned to local governments. In particular, he is responsible for the cleanliness of the territory near the Memorial. Municipality of Athens.

The ministry stated that following the mayor’s public statement that “responsibility for the Memorial lies solely with the government“, it cannot leave the situation without intervention and “will transfer responsibility for cleaning the territory to a third party“for the required period of time.

Defense Minister Nikos Dendias previously emphasized that respect for the fallen heroes of national wars and the history of the country is “common duty and responsibility of all citizens“

The incident between municipal authorities and the Ministry of Defense was a continuation controversy surrounding the status of the Memorial and its symbolic meaning, increasing tension between central and local authorities.

Athens News reported earlier that the Greek Parliament had amended the law to ban protests at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – a cult monument near the parliament building in Athenswhere demonstrators traditionally gather.

Amendment proposed government of Kyriakos Mitsotakiscaused fierce debate in parliament. Four opposition parties opposed, saying that the initiative contrary to the Constitution and violates right to freedom of expression and protest. Center-Left Party “Syriza” called on citizens to take to the streets to protest the decision.

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