Migration Minister Thanos Plevris accused NGO members of acting “outside the institutional framework” at a Chios hospital following a deadly maritime incident, alleging that individuals posing as interpreters attempted to collect statements from injured migrants, potentially interfering with the ongoing investigation.
Speaking in Parliament, Mr. Plevris said reports that two NGO members sought to guide hospitalized migrants were troubling, arguing that political parties should not send interpreters to obtain testimonies.
“Is this not intervention in the investigation?” he asked lawmakers, emphasizing that the inquiry is being conducted by an investigating magistrate. “I believe what the Coast Guard says; you may believe otherwise,” he added, addressing opposition benches, particularly the New Left party.
Responding to criticism from opposition and left-wing lawmakers over the Chios tragedy, Mr. Plevris defended the Coast Guard and dismissed allegations of pushbacks and violations of international law, invoking the Battle of Salamis for emphasis.
“It is exhausting for the Left to see pushbacks everywhere,” he said, adding that the Coast Guard “honors its mission.”
The remarks came as Parliament concluded a tense two-day debate marked by clashes over the Chios incident.
Lawmakers approved a bill on legal migration in principle with support only from ruling New Democracy members, although several opposition parties backed individual provisions. Greek Solution and Niki opposed the legislation in full.