With great interest (and some amusement), I read the touching manifesto of Opposition Leader Michalis Kolias, who, after 13 years of hibernation, has suddenly discovered that Leros has… greenery! His ecological epiphany is truly impressive, reminiscent of the fable about the wolf who turned vegetarian.
But what astounds me as a human being is Mr. Kolias’ habit of denouncing actions he himself committed! We’re talking about the “Picasso of tree pruning” (see photos below), the master of “trees for votes”!
Let me address, point by point, the “burning” questions of this newfound environmentalist, Michalis Kolias:
On the tree-cutting permit:
Before the municipal authority responds formally, Mr. Kolias, let’s not discuss ropes in the house of the hanged. You might be the only mayor in Greece fined €1,200 for illegal tree felling, yet you accuse others! That’s not just a record; it’s Olympic-level hypocrisy.
On the three “annihilated” trees:
Those trees had been dead for three years, during which you were in a political coma. And since your memory seems on holiday, let me remind you: I was the one who exposed (via video) how certain people (hint: Kolias) turned a blind eye to the crime for votes. You reaped what you sowed: dead trees and zero votes!
On the “silent” Green Committee:
The committee includes opposition members. Perhaps you don’t recognize it because you’re used to 13 years of rubber-stamp committees that only knew how to say “yes” to the Aga!
On the “silent” journalist:
Here I am! Unlike you, I didn’t remember ecology only to attack Mayor Kottakis. And yes, I was the one who warned with video evidence about the suspicious withering of those trees. What were you doing then?
On the “silent” media:
The local media is silent? You’re confusing “silence” with the fact they no longer take you seriously. If you crave attention, try National Geographic, now that you’ve discovered nature!
Dear Mr. Kolias, your sudden “love” for greenery reminds me of those who hug trees only to estimate how much lumber they’ll yield.
A friendly tip: When scrambling to oppose, mind you don’t saw off the branch you’re sitting on. Panic is a poor advisor.
With deep affection and ecological concern,
Nikos Ignatidis
Photos follow of Michalis Kolias’ “Picasso-esque” tree pruning:
