nterior Minister Thodoris Livanios announced a wave of permanent hiring for essential municipal services Wednesday while vigorously defending controversial plans to abolish the second round of local elections.
Speaking at an emergency assembly of the Central Union of Municipalities (KEDE), Mr. Livanios confirmed that a special hiring window will open within days to staff sanitation, water utilities, and waste management sectors.
"We are making a titanic effort to speed up procedures," Mr. Livanios told the gathered mayors, aiming to plug chronic staffing gaps in fee-funded services.
The minister also doubled down on the government’s draft Local Government Code, specifically the proposal to eliminate runoff elections.
Addressing criticism that the move undermines democracy—voiced prominently by Athens Mayor Haris Doukas—Mr. Livanios argued that the first round offers greater legitimacy due to higher voter turnout.
"Is it really stronger legitimacy when fewer people vote?" Mr. Livanios asked, rejecting the notion that runoff bargaining better reflects the popular will.
On the financial front, Mr. Livanios pledged €200 million ($208 million) to help municipal water companies cover energy debts.
He also unveiled social relief measures, including extending debt repayment plans for citizens from 24 to 48 months and allowing councils to write off up to 50% of principal debts for vulnerable households.
The reforms mark a significant overhaul of local administration, attempting to balance fiscal discipline with the urgent need for operational support in Greece’s municipalities.