Defending his record in the face of criticism from the man who’ll take his place, outgoing Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis said he left the Greek capital a better place to live.
He was defeated in a surprise result by Haris Doukas, from the PASOK-KINAL Socialists and the two have clashed over issues since, especially a state amendment that takes power away from the mayor’s office in capital projects.
Bakoyannis served just one term after winning office in 2019 as the candidate from New Democracy and is Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ nephew, but the defeat was a rare loss for the ruling Conservatives to dominate government.
“I wish (Doukas) success for the benefit of the citizens and the city. The bar is now set high, as we promised to elevate it,” Bakoyannis said. “The Athens of 2023 is a far cry from the one we inherited in 2019,” he said
“Today, Athens is advancing rapidly, presenting a multitude of opportunities. It has now formulated a comprehensive plan and acquired the necessary resources, means, and tools. We are optimistic that the new administration will effectively utilize these assets,” he said.
He tried to beautify the city, including a redoing of the grimy Omonia Square near City Hall where a fountain was installed and the area cleaned up, and supported the construction of a Metro station in the anarchist threshold of Exarchia opposed by residents and Doukas.
“Numerous projects await completion, and the path ahead is extensive for a city committed to enhancing rather than hindering the lives of its residents – a city that prioritizes security and emanates freedom and creativity for all,” he said
Bakoyannis committed to “serve and honor” the people of Athens, vowing to exercise constructive opposition in the new Municipal Council. “I hand over the administration of the municipality; I do not abandon Athens,” he said.
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