Significant political reactions are being caused by the recent judicial development concerning Pavlos Polakis, who was unanimously and finally found guilty of the offence of libel. The court handed down a five-month suspended prison sentence, a fact that reignites the public debate about the limits of political speech and personal confrontation.

The case came to the fore again through a post by Health Minister’s adviser and New Democracy politician in West Attica, Stamatis Poulis, who called it a “major political issue”. According to him, the conviction does not only concern the person of Mr Polakis, but extends to a political level, raising questions about the attitude and rhetoric of the opposition.

Special reference is also made to SYRIZA, with Mr Poulis leaving points about the overall political responsibility that may arise. This development is expected to further fuel the political debate, especially at a time when public discourse is already at a high pitch.

The case once again highlights the importance of institutional accountability and accuracy in public statements, especially when they come from persons with an active role in the country’s political life.

Following is the post by Stamatis Poulis: