The five-day debate in the Greek Parliament over the 2026 state budget concludes today, culminating in speeches by the leaders of all political parties and closing with an address by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. A roll-call vote will follow, with the budget expected—as is customary—to pass with the votes of the governing majority.
Despite moments of confrontation between government and opposition MPs, the discussion unfolded in relatively mild, almost subdued tones. Attendance in the chamber was thin across nearly all parties, reinforcing the sense of a debate that never quite caught fire. Today, however, marks its climax, as party leaders take the floor and the prime minister delivers the final word.
Farmers, subsidies and structural reform
With the agricultural issue remaining the most politically sensitive topic—farmers continue nationwide mobilizations—Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to speak at around 7 p.m. According to sources, he will refer to the issue while leaving the details of negotiations to the competent ministry.
The prime minister is set to emphasize his vision for restructuring Greece’s primary production sector, focusing on the overhaul of OPEKEPE, the Greek agency responsible for EU farm subsidies. Central to this plan is transferring its responsibilities to AADE, Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue. Mitsotakis reportedly sees this move as a cornerstone of modernizing the entire subsidy system and as the first serious step toward meaningful reform of the agricultural sector.
Budget measures, month by month
On the substance of the 2026 budget, the prime minister is expected to outline, month by month, the measures to be implemented over the year. These measures are designed to support the middle class, young people and families.
Housing will feature prominently in his speech—not only as a challenge facing younger generations, but as a major cost burden for households overall. Existing initiatives such as the “My Home” housing program and rent subsidies will be highlighted, alongside new measures that the government is preparing to introduce.
Mitsotakis is also expected to comment on the broader political landscape, set against an increasingly unstable international environment. He will likely argue that the opposition has failed to play a constructive role, relying instead on alarmist rhetoric without offering credible alternatives. The government’s program, he will insist, remains the only guarantee of stability and long-term prospects for the country.
Androulakis’ sharp attack
A strongly worded speech is expected from PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis. According to information, he will criticize a range of government choices, describing the Recovery and Resilience Fund as a missed opportunity. He is expected to argue that Greece is falling behind in European convergence, living standards and the cost of living.
Androulakis will also address the agricultural issue, accuse the government of stagnation, and—following remarks he made in a television interview yesterday—is expected to vote against the defense spending provisions in the budget.
Famelos’ proposals
SYRIZA leader Sokratis Famelos is likewise expected to focus on agriculture, while making pointed references to recent scandals and current political developments. According to sources, he will present his party’s proposals on VAT and taxation more broadly, outlining SYRIZA’s alternative approach to fiscal policy.
As the debate draws to a close, today’s speeches are set to define not only the fate of the 2026 budget, but also the political fault lines that will shape the months ahead.