In the intervention for follow-up case The President of the Republic continued Katerina Sakellaropoulou.

As the PtD states, the national security exception to protect the confidentiality of communications should be “narrowly interpreted and its application consistent with the principles of the rule of law and proportionality.”

Commenting that the transparency of state actions is the most important indicator of the quality of democracy, Ms. Sakellaropoulou calls for an immediate and complete clarification of the case, as well as for covering up the activities of the EPM.

Full PtD statement:

“Protection of the secrecy of communication is a fundamental condition for a democratic and liberal society. The exception provided by the Constitution for reasons of national security is related to the need to protect the country in a difficult international environment that requires vigilance and difficult reflection.

However, it should be interpreted narrowly and its application should be consistent with the principles of the rule of law and proportionality. Strict observance of the rule of law and transparency of the actions of the state is not only a guarantee of individual rights, but also the most important indicator of the quality of our democracy. This reinforces the confidence in our political contract and the sustainability of our culture. Demands the immediate and complete clarification of the case of telephone tapping, as well as the cover-up of the activities of the National Intelligence Service. With self-restraint and respect for parliamentary procedures and institutions.

Respect for and defense of democracy goes beyond parties and factions, persons and positions. This is the highest duty of all of us towards the Greek people.”