Theodoros Pangalos: A Legacy of Greek Politics and Controversy
Theodoros Pangalos (1938–2023) was a prominent figure in Greek political life and a leading member of the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK). Throughout a career spanning several decades, he held some of the highest offices in the Greek government, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs. Known for his outspoken nature and political agility, Pangalos navigated the complex landscape of Greek governance from the era of the Metapolitefsi—the period of transition from military junta to democracy—until his retirement from parliament in 2012.
Key Facts
- Highest Office: Deputy Prime Minister of Greece (2009–2012).
- Foreign Affairs: Served as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1996 to 1999.
- Political Affiliations: Member of EDA, KKE, and eventually PASOK.
- Family Heritage: Grandson of the 1926 dictator, General Theodoros Pangalos.
- Notable Phrase: Coined the phrase "Mazi ta fagame" regarding Greece's national debt.
Early Life and Political Foundations
Born on August 17, 1938, in Eleusis, Greece, Pangalos grew up with a complex political lineage; his grandfather was the General and dictator Theodoros Pangalos. His own political journey began on the left, where he was a member of the Lambrakis Youth. In 1964, he ran for the Hellenic Parliament as a candidate for the United Democratic Left (EDA).
Pangalos's commitment to democratic ideals led him to oppose the military dictatorship that seized power in 1967. As a result of his opposition, the junta stripped him of his Greek citizenship in 1968.
Rise Through the Political Ranks
Following the fall of the junta, Pangalos joined the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), eventually ascending to its Central Committee. However, during the Metapolitefsi, he transitioned to the socialist PASOK party. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1981 and maintained his seat continuously until 2012.
His early ministerial experience included serving as Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs between 1993 and 1994 under Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou.
Ministerial Tenure and International Incidents
Pangalos served as the Minister for Foreign Affairs from January 22, 1996, to February 18, 1999. His tenure was marked by a significant international scandal involving Abdullah Öcalan, the leader of the PKK (a recognized terrorist organization in the EU). Öcalan entered Greece illegally with the help of certain Greek intelligence members and was later deported to Kenya, where he was captured by Turkish agents outside the Greek embassy in Nairobi. This event led to Pangalos's resignation in 1999.
In 2000, he was briefly appointed Minister for Culture. This appointment faced heavy criticism due to his previous comments describing artists who protested his handling of the Öcalan affair as kouradomanges (a Greek term meaning "turd tough guys").
Deputy Prime Minister and Later Years
From October 7, 2009, to May 17, 2012, Pangalos served as the Deputy Prime Minister of Greece. In this capacity, he was responsible for coordinating the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) and the Economic & Social Policy Committee.
During the Greek financial crisis, he became widely known for the phrase "Mazi ta fagame" (literally "We all ate it together"), suggesting that the entire population shared responsibility for the national debt. This quote later entered popular culture, being sampled by the experimental pop band Plastic Flowers in their song "Sinking Ship / Vanished Crew." Later in 2018, he drew further controversy during a radio appearance for remarks regarding Turkish people.
Summary of Political Career
| Position | Term | Prime Minister |
|---|---|---|
| Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs | 1993–1994 | Andreas Papandreou |
| Minister for Foreign Affairs | 1996–1999 | Costas Simitis |
| Minister for Culture | 2000 | Costas Simitis |
| Deputy Prime Minister | 2009–2012 | George Papandreou / Lucas Papademos |
Death
Theodoros Pangalos passed away on May 31, 2023, in Athens at the age of 84. His remains were cremated on June 2, 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Theodoros Pangalos?
He was a prominent Greek politician and a leading member of the PASOK party who served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs.
What was the "Mazi ta fagame" controversy?
It was a statement made by Pangalos meaning "We all ate it together," which he used to argue that the Greek public shared collective responsibility for the country's national debt.
Why did he resign as Minister for Foreign Affairs in 1999?
He resigned following a scandal involving the illegal entry and subsequent capture of PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan in Nairobi, Kenya.
What was his relationship with the military junta?
Pangalos opposed the 1967 military dictatorship, which resulted in the junta stripping him of his Greek citizenship in 1968.
Which political parties was he affiliated with?
Over his career, he was associated with the United Democratic Left (EDA), the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), and the Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK).