**Greek Ruling Party Calls for Protests Following Fatal Firebomb Attack**
Greece's ruling New Democracy party has called for public protests after a tragic incident in Thessaloniki resulted in the death of Vagia Nestora, the 72-year-old mother of a parliamentary candidate. Nestora succumbed to severe burns sustained during a firebomb attack that targeted the homes of local party officials early on Tuesday morning.
The attacks involved the placement of flaming gas canisters at three residences associated with New Democracy figures, leading to explosions that caused significant damage and injuries. Vagia Nestora, who suffered burns covering 80% of her body, died from organ failure, as confirmed by a hospital statement. Her daughter, Afroditi Nestora, the party's candidate, also sustained burns in the incident, along with three other individuals who were injured.
This incident marks a disturbing return to political violence in Greece, as it is the first time in over a decade that an attack aimed at political figures has resulted in a fatality. Greece has a long history of political violence, including bombings and arson, but targeted assassinations have become increasingly rare since the jailing of leaders from left-wing militant groups two decades ago.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis condemned the attack, describing it as an "extreme coordinated murderous attack" against New Democracy officials. He characterized the perpetrators as "cowardly" individuals who resort to violence under the guise of ideology. Marinakis emphasized the government's stance against terrorism, stating, "The message we are sending is clear: Terrorism will not win! No one will be afraid."
In response to the violence, the New Democracy party, along with its youth branch ONNED, organized a rally to honor Vagia Nestora and protest against such acts of violence. The rally is scheduled for Thursday evening outside the hospital where she passed away. The party's statement declared, "We are not afraid of you," reinforcing their unity against terrorism.
The investigation into the attacks has been handed over to a police anti-terrorism unit. Police spokeswoman Constantina Dimoglidou indicated that evidence suggests the attacks were likely coordinated. Authorities are currently reviewing video footage to determine whether the same group was responsible for all three incidents.
As Greece grapples with this shocking act of violence, the New Democracy party's call for protests underscores the heightened tensions surrounding political discourse in the country. The tragic loss of Vagia Nestora has reignited discussions about the safety of public figures and the broader implications of political violence in Greece.