The opposition leftist Syriza (EU Left) and socialist (Pasok) parties have said all those involved in the wiretapping scandal, including politicians, will face criminal responsibilities and, if convicted, be jailed.

Almost one week before the national elections (21 May), the discussion heated up after Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (EPP) admitted for the first time during a debate that there was no national security reason for the secret services – under his direct control – to bug the phone of socialist leader Nikos Androulakis in the so-called “Greek Watergate” scandal.

Greek PM admits bugging socialist leader’s phone was wrong

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis admitted for the first time that there was no national security reason for the secret services to bug the phone of socialist leader Nikos Androulakis in the so-called “Greek Watergate”.

Greek press has reported that the Greek secret services put several politicians, journalists and businessmen under surveillance. The prime minister denies any involvement saying he was not aware.

“I have appealed to Greek and European justice as a European citizen. I await the outcome of the Court,” said socialist leader Nikos Androulakis, whose phone was bugged by the secret services.

“We have a separation of powers, we have rule of law, and I believe that the persons who wiretapped myself, the chiefs of the armed forces [and others], and have committed criminal acts should be held to account for their criminal responsibilities […] if they are convicted, they should go to jail,” the socialist chief added.

For its part, main opposition Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras lashed out against the conservative New Democracy party (EPP), saying that, together with some justice officials, is trying to sweep the scandal under the carpet.

“Why, for nine months now, no charges have been brought against anyone by the Greek Justice? What exactly are Mr Dogiakos [chief prosecutor] and the other prosecutors doing for nine months?” Tsipras said.

Also read: Chief prosecutor puts Greece’s rule of law to the test

Tsipras agreed with Androulakis that those responsible should be held accountable but noted that this would not happen if New Democracy remained in power after the elections.

New Democracy leads all the polls; however, analysts project a neck-and-neck race with Syriza, who ranks second. Pasok gets third and is expected to play the kingmaker’s role.

The wiretapping scandal, some estimate, will be a determined element in forming a progressive coalition between Syriza and Pasok.

(Sarantis Michalopoulos | EURACTIV.com)

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