“Culture Is Not the Enemy of Development – Legality Will Be Fully Respected”
Kalymnos Mayor Ioannis Mastrokoukos has responded to the controversy surrounding the planned concert at the Nikiforeio High School sports ground, stressing that the Municipality will continue to operate with transparency, equal treatment, and full respect for the law.
In his public statement, the mayor notes that Kalymnos has a long tradition of hosting cultural events in public spaces, including school courtyards, town squares, and sports grounds. He emphasizes that similar events take place throughout Greece under the supervision of the competent authorities and in accordance with all legal requirements.
Mr. Mastrokoukos also points out that the same venue hosted a major privately organized concert last year without attracting similar criticism, adding that citizens are free to draw their own conclusions.
He stresses that the Municipality cannot discriminate between event organizers without lawful justification, as equal treatment is a legal obligation. According to the mayor, all required permits, safety measures, fire protection, health regulations, and other legal requirements will be examined by the competent authorities, and no one is exempt from complying with the law.
Addressing the broader impact of the event, the mayor argues that cultural and music events contribute positively to the local economy by attracting visitors who stay in local accommodations, dine in restaurants, visit cafés, shop in local businesses, and promote Kalymnos as a destination. He also calls for calm and unity, urging everyone to avoid creating an image of Kalymnos as a place that opposes every cultural initiative.
Concluding his statement, Mr. Mastrokoukos affirms that the Municipal Authority will continue to act with transparency, fairness, and respect for democratic institutions, aiming to promote unity, cultural development, and sustainable progress for the island.
