Hundreds of thousands of Greeks took to the streets on the second anniversary of the nation's deadliest train disaster, a tragedy that claimed the lives of 57 people near the town of Tembi in 2023. The massive demonstrations, fueled by anger and a demand for justice, brought the country to a standstill, disrupting air, rail, and maritime traffic.
Demanding Accountability
The protesters are calling for a thorough and independent investigation into the causes of the accident, rejecting what many perceive as a whitewashing of the investigation. Initial findings have pointed to human error and technical shortcomings in railway safety as the primary factors, a conclusion that has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among the public and the opposition.
“The full truth must be revealed and those responsible for the accident must be held accountable regardless of their rank," declared Janis Panagopulos, head of the country's largest trade union federation, GSEE, reflecting the sentiment of many protesters.
Clashes in Athens
While the majority of the demonstrations were peaceful, tensions flared in Athens, where protesters clashed with police in front of the Hellenic Parliament building. Some demonstrators reportedly threw incendiary bottles, prompting police to respond with tear gas. The scenes of unrest underscored the deep-seated anger and frustration felt by many Greeks over the perceived lack of accountability for the disaster.
A Nation Paralyzed
The widespread demonstrations coincided with a general strike, further amplifying the disruption across the country. Transportation networks were severely affected, with air, rail, and maritime services suspended or significantly delayed. The strike and protests highlight the ongoing public anger and the demand for a transparent and just resolution to the tragedy.
The events serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the train disaster and the enduring quest for justice and accountability in its aftermath. The protests and strike action demonstrate the collective determination of the Greek people to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.