In a particularly pointed post, the mayor of Kythira, Efstratios Charchalakis, offered his own response today to the events that unfolded in the recent emergency meeting regarding the sewer system in Kapsali, while sending a clear message in every direction.
The mayor chose to speak out publicly on the occasion of his visit—accompanied by local president Giorgos Sklavos—to the major project of Comprehensive Redevelopment of Avlemonas, amounting to €4,000,000 from the Recovery Fund. Noting that the result of the redevelopment is «more than unique,» Mr. Charchalakis cited the example of Avlemonas as the ultimate counterargument to complaints about the inconvenience caused by major infrastructure projects.
«There is NO such thing as a hassle-free project»
Indirectly acknowledging the dissatisfaction expressed over the delays, the mayor emphasized the need for perseverance and patience, taking a firm stance against those calling for the immediate completion of complex projects.
«This project would not have moved forward without the patience shown by residents and business owners over the past nearly two years. After all, projects of this scale cannot be completed within the six months that winter lasts!» he noted characteristically, adding meaningfully: «There are NO projects without hardships. Major projects CANNOT be carried out without temporary disruptions.».
«I'm not taking any chances with funding—I'm absolutely certain.»
Referring to the nature of fund management and the pressures posed by binding deadlines, Mr. Charhalakis appeared unyielding:
«If we want to be useful—and not just popular—we must do everything we can to ensure that the major funding we’ve brought to our region through hard work and dedication is not lost. […] Under no circumstances will I accept that the funding for any project be put at risk, for any reason whatsoever. On this point, I am absolutely firm.».
Harsh «accusations» against Sofios for populism
The most scathing part of the mayor’s remarks, however, concerned the political backdrop of Thursday’s meeting and the presence of the leader of the minor opposition party, Anargyros Sofios, whom he described as a «professional populist.’.
Without naming him, but clearly pointing him out, the mayor criticized his presence at the meeting with citizens:
«I advise the professional populists —those who, with boundless audacity, intrude on meetings convened by the mayor with citizens and city officials without having the slightest business being there […]—to be more careful.’.
Mr. Charchalakis even called on his critics, before they step forward as «judges,» to first make sure to vote in favor of the municipal budget, which includes precisely those projects they now seem so concerned about.
With this post, the political confrontation in Kythira has reached a fever pitch, with the sewage system in Kapsali and the Recovery Fund deadlines at the center of a fierce battle between the municipal government and the opposition.
Don't confuse the island's Moses and make him run around for a photo, trying to prove that both Kapsali and Avlemonas are the same (in his mind).