Kostis Stephanopoulos was a President who honored the country’s highest position in office. In his public life he was always dignified, consistent in his ideas and dedicated to the public and national interest. He faced adversities in his political career with pride, respect towards the public will and without bickering and populism.
Despite his conservative background he was exemplary in serving in his position, by cooperating with governments of varying political beliefs, overcoming his personal ideas and always trying to find a compromise between social and political conflicts. He protected the prestige of the democratic institutions, by upholding the constitution even when he was forced to go against popular opinion. His clash with the Church and State on the issue of national ID cards, as well as his opposition to the hysteria over the student children of migrants being flag bearers, are indicative.
He boldly and discernibly recognized his mistakes and realized the needs and messages of the times. He passionately and seriously defended national interests, within the framework of his powers, without challenges and political opportunism. He never hesitated to speak the truth, according to his political and ideological principles, even when he knew that it could he a hindrance in his personal career.
Even when he left the Presidency, he never hesitated to express what he believed was right and in the national interest, even if those ideas did not fall in line with the dominant political beliefs and intentions. He was a model of honesty and personal integrity, which is why he had the support of the overwhelming majority of the people. His overall presence set the standard for his successors.
TO VIMA
