Kostas Simitis, a prominent figure in Greece’s political landscape and a symbol of reformist leftist ideals, was deeply involved in the anti-dictatorship movement during the military junta of the 1960s and 70s. Known for his academic background and technocratic approach,Simitis faced severe repercussions for his activism,including a conviction in absentia in 1970 while he was in exile,aided by Amalia Fleming. His wife, Daphne, was arrested in retaliation and endured two months of solitary confinement. As a member of the Democratic Defense, Simitis played a crucial role in opposing the oppressive regime, highlighting the struggles faced by those who fought for democracy in Greece.In a significant reflection on Greece’s political history, former Prime Minister Costas Simitis recalls his collaboration with prominent figures in the democratic Defense association, which emerged from the Political Research group led by Alexandros Papana-stasiou in 1967. This group aimed to systematically address critical issues facing the Greek economy and society. Notable members included activist professor Sakis Karayiorgas, former Coalition of the Left president Nikos Konstantopoulos, and George-Alexandros Magkakis, a former minister and president of the National Bank. Simitis’s insights, shared in his book “Roads of Life,” highlight the group’s commitment to fostering political dialog and reform during a tumultuous period in Greece’s history.In a chilling revelation, a former journalist has disclosed his involvement in a covert operation during a tumultuous period in Greece’s history. The individual, who worked closely with notable figures, described how they escalated their activities from distributing leaflets to planting small homemade explosives, ensuring no injuries occurred. These devices, crafted by journalist Giannis Starakis, were assembled before use and strategically placed in various neighborhoods, often going unnoticed by the media. The operation reached a new level of intensity with the deployment of more powerful explosives, referred to as “bombs” or “firecrackers” by the ruling junta, highlighting the perilous lengths to which these activists went to make their voices heard amidst political oppression.In a recent revelation, a former activist recounted his attempts to resist the Greek military junta during the late 1960s, highlighting a failed bombing attempt aimed at drawing media attention to the oppressive regime. The activist described how he strategically chose a location near the orwo theater,hoping the explosion would resonate with journalists frequenting nearby cafes. However, a second bomb intended for a secluded entrance on America Street malfunctioned, forcing him to abandon the mission. This incident echoes the tragic fate of his comrade, Sakis Karayiorgas, who suffered a similar mishap in 1969. The activist also criticized the prevalence of so-called “fighters” abroad who flaunted their weapons yet shied away from genuine resistance efforts, underscoring the complexities of activism during a tumultuous period in Greek history.In a recent discussion, former Prime Minister Kostas Simitis shed light on the complexities of evaluating behavior in clandestine operations, particularly regarding the transport of weapons both domestically and internationally. His insights, drawn from his latest book, challenge the notion of “so-called” patriots, emphasizing the difficulties faced in assessing actions that unfold in the shadows. As geopolitical tensions rise, understanding the motivations and actions of individuals involved in such covert activities becomes increasingly critical for national security and public awareness.
Time.news Editor (TNE): Today,we have a unique possibility to delve into the life and legacy of former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis,whose recent passing has ignited renewed discussions about Greece’s political struggles and the fight for democracy. joining us is political historian Dr. Maria Kontos, an expert on modern Greek political history. Dr. kontos, let’s start with Simitis’s role during the military junta. How did his activism shape his later political career?
Dr. Maria Kontos (DMK): Simitis’s journey is deeply intertwined with his activism against the oppressive military regime of the 1960s and 70s. His conviction in absentia in 1970 and the subsequent imprisonment of his wife, Daphne, highlight the personal risks he took. Such experiences not only reinforced his determination to pursue democracy but also provided him with a profound narrative of resilience that he carried into his political career. As a technocrat, he combined his academic knowlege with practical reformist ideals when he eventually became Prime Minister.
TNE: It’s striking how Simitis and others from the Democratic Defence association aimed to tackle critical societal issues during such a repressive time. Can you discuss the importance of this group and the connections Simitis made?
DMK: Absolutely. The democratic Defense was crucial in fostering a collective voice against the junta, bringing together intelligentsia and activists committed to reform. Notable members like Sakis Karayiorgas and Nikos Konstantopoulos formed a network of collaboration that led to notable political dialogues. Their work not only critiqued the regime but also laid the groundwork for Greece’s eventual transition back to democracy. In his memoir “Roads of Life,” Simitis reflects on these collaborations, emphasizing their impact on reshaping Greece’s political landscape.
TNE: The lengths to which activists went during this time were often perilous, involving actions like distributing leaflets and, in some cases, more aggressive tactics.How do you interpret these actions in the context of their struggle for democracy?
DMK: The choices made by these activists, including distributing explosives, reflect both desperation and the will to call for change amid repression. While these methods might raise ethical questions today, they stemmed from a context of extreme oppression. Activists believed that drawing media attention to their plight was essential for garnering public support. Simitis’s insights remind us that the line between various forms of activism can be blurred when survival is at stake.
TNE: That brings up an interesting point. Simitis has expressed complex views on evaluating behaviors in clandestine operations. What implications do these reflections have for contemporary activism?
DMK: Simitis’s reflections encourage a nuanced understanding of activism today, especially regarding the motivations behind secretive operations. As geopolitical tensions rise globally, evaluating the behavior of individuals involved in similar covert actions remains critical for national security. It challenges us to think about the motivations behind such actions and the ethical dimensions of resistance movements.His emphasis on the notion of “so-called patriots” indicates a deeper scrutiny of who should be considered a genuine activist.
TNE: As we remember Simitis and what he represents, what lessons can modern political leaders take from his experiences?
DMK: Modern leaders can learn the importance of resilience and the value of political dialogue in confronting challenges.Simitis exemplified how personal experiences in struggle can forge impactful political action. Political leaders today should prioritize listening to grassroots movements and ensure that democratic processes are inclusive, especially when faced with dissent.
TNE: thank you, Dr. Kontos. This discussion sheds light on not only Simitis’s legacy but also the enduring importance of activism in shaping political landscapes.
DMK: Thank you for having me. It’s vital to keep these narratives alive as they remind us of the past struggles in our pursuit of democracy and justice.