A political confrontation between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and his predecessor, Alexis Tsipras, is expected to dominate the upcoming Thessaloniki International Fair, setting the stage for a contentious autumn season.
Mr. Tsipras is scheduled to deliver a speech at an Economist conference in Thessaloniki just one day before Mr. Mitsotakis gives his annual keynote address at the fair.
The prime minister’s speech is traditionally seen as the government’s unveiling of its economic and political agenda for the year ahead.
While government officials have denied rumors that Mr. Tsipras is planning to launch a new party, sources say his speech will feature a sharp critique of the government’s policies.
In response, the prime minister’s office is reportedly preparing a “hard rock” stance against the former premier, according to political correspondent Giannis Kantelis.
The planned address appears to be part of a broader strategy by Mr. Tsipras to remain a central figure in public debate.
He is also writing a book about his 2015-2019 premiership, which is expected to be released by the end of the year and contain revelations intended to challenge the government’s narrative.
