Giannis Panagopoulos: Case file on asset declarations closed

The case file concerning alleged violations of the asset declaration law by GSEE president Giannis Panagopoulos has been placed in the archive.

According to information, during the preliminary examination, the GSEE president’s side submitted written explanations regarding the asset declaration case, after which the competent prosecutor concluded that there were no indications of the commission of the specific criminal offense.

The case file was forwarded to the Court of Appeal Prosecutor’s Office in order to ratify the decision to archive it.

As for the other two individuals under investigation for inaccurate or incomplete asset declarations, two separate case files have been formed and the investigation is ongoing.

Panagopoulos’ full statement on the outcome of the case:

“In recent weeks, a public discussion developed around my person, based on leaks, non-papers and speculation, even before the institutional process had been completed and without any official finding having been served on me.

Regarding the so-called ‘case of non-submission of an asset declaration and concealed income of €3.2 million’, following the submission of my explanations and the evaluation of all evidence, the competent Prosecutor placed the case in the archive.

This development officially confirms that no evidence emerged to substantiate any violation and, therefore, there is no reason for further criminal investigation.

In simple terms: a case that was presented for weeks as a ‘serious allegation’ and a ‘major scandal’ ended up without substance.

At the same time, concerning the earlier case, for which an asset-freezing order was issued, we have not to date been called to receive knowledge of any findings, while the appeal we have filed against that order is still pending.

And yet, in the public discourse, all this was presented as already concluded and settled. It was not. And this is not a detail — it is the essence. Because before Justice could speak, some chose to speak on its behalf. And not at a random time.

The initial organised publication of these claims coincided with the parliamentary discussion of a development of historic importance — namely, the reinstatement of collective agreements with an enhanced role for GSEE, restoring rights and covering hundreds of thousands of workers.

This coincidence raises reasonable and serious questions.

Especially when what was circulated is said to have originated from the head of an Independent Authority, Mr Vourliotis, an even more serious issue arises. An Independent Authority must operate with institutional neutrality, transparency and respect for procedures — not through leaks and the shaping of impressions before the conclusion of its assessment.

When this is not observed, it is not only one individual who is affected.

The credibility of institutions and citizens’ trust in the rule of law are affected.

Because, at such a critical moment for the world of labour, was there an attempt to shift the public debate away from the substantive issue to a climate of impressions and doubt?

Who does this choice serve?

For me, the stake was and remains one: strengthening collective bargaining, restoring workers’ rights, and ensuring a strong, independent trade union movement.

Along this path, it was expected that there would be reactions, pressures and attacks. However, the response cannot be retreat.

As President of GSEE, with many years of presence and responsibility in the field of labour, I have proven that I can endure, defend and move forward.

And that is what I will continue to do, with even greater determination.

With clarity, institutional consistency, and full awareness of the responsibility entrusted to me by workers.

At the same time, the questions arising from the manner and timing of the circulation of these claims cannot remain unanswered.

For this reason, in cooperation with my legal advisers, I will use every lawful means for the full investigation of the case and the protection of both my personal reputation and the institutional role I represent.

My trust in Justice is given.

As is my commitment to continue my work for workers without interruption.

Because, at the end of the day, what is at stake is not an individual, but the strength and the voice of labour”.