Greek Former Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis Passes Away at 88
ATHENS — Kostas Karamanlis, Greece’s former prime minister and a leading figure in the political party New Democracy, has died. He was 88.
The funeral of Karamanlis, who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2009, will take place with full military honors at the First Cemetery of Athens on Tuesday, according to Greek government spokesperson Giannis Oikonomou.
Karamanlis, who was also a former president of the party, was known for his role in the country’s transition from military rule to democracy in the 1970s. He stepped down as party leader in 2009 and as member of parliament in 2019.
A graduate of the Athens Law School, Karamanlis was a member of the Greek parliament from 1974 until his death. He served as minister of press and tourism from 1974 to 1977, as minister of agriculture from 1977 to 1980, and as minister of economic coordination and development in 1987 and from 1990 to 1992.
Karamanlis’ rule coincided with a period of economic growth and rising living standards in Greece. He led the country through the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens and oversaw its expansion into the eurozone in 2001.
The former prime minister was not in public life after he stepped down in 2009, but remained active in New Democracy. In a statement, the party praised him as an “unforgettable political leader, a beloved Party president, a devoted democrat.”
Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou said Karamanlis “dedicated his life to the service of his country and democracy.”
Tributes poured in from other political parties and personalities, recognizing Karamanlis’ contribution to Greek politics and society.Flags flew at half-mast at the Greek parliament and government buildings.
In his final years, Karamanlis grappled with health issues, recently suffering from a leg infection that led to his hospitalization.
