The trial for the 2023 Tempi train disaster, which claimed 57 lives, resumed on Wednesday under an atmosphere of extreme volatility and a complete logistical overhaul.
Following a disastrous opening session on March 23rd that was halted due to overcrowding and technical failures, the court at the “Gaiopolis” conference center has implemented rigorous new security measures to prevent a total collapse of order.
To address the “indignity” previously reported by victims’ families, the court has introduced separate entrances for defendants and relatives, alongside strict ID checks. However, the physical layout remains a point of contention. While over 250 lawyers and 36 defendants—including station masters and rail executives—jostle for space, the emotional weight of the proceedings continues to clash with the sterile, makeshift nature of the venue.
The Tempi trial and the Konstantopoulou factor
At the heart of the procedural storm is Zoe Konstantopoulou, leader of the Pleusi Eleftherias party and a former President of the Parliament. Acting as a legal representative for several victims’ families, Konstantopoulou has transformed her role from mere counselor to a political firebrand, relentlessly challenging the court’s authority.
During today’s session, she spearheaded the critique against the “unacceptable” courtroom conditions, labeling them a “second humiliation” for the bereaved.
She also formally requested the full audiovisual coverage and tape recording of the proceedings, arguing that the Greek public has a right to witness the trial firsthand to prevent “false representations” of the facts.
Addressing the presiding judge directly, Konstantopoulou tied the request to the integrity of the legal process. “The whole of Greece wants to follow this trial,” she stated, insisting that her motion be ruled upon before she continues with her opening statements.
The atmosphere turned explosive when the court reserved its decision on the filming request rather than granting it immediately. As shouting broke out, the presiding judge lost her patience.
“I want it to be like a church in here!” the Judge shouted over the noise, attempting to restore decorum. “The court is getting tired. Silence!”
Tempi trial: 36 defendants in the dock
As the formal identification of witnesses continues, the trial is expected to be a marathon lasting over two years. With a case file exceeding 60,000 pages, the primary struggle remains a battle for the narrative: while the defense focuses on human error and technical malfunctions, Konstantopoulou and the families she represents are demanding a verdict that acknowledges systemic state negligence.
A total of 36 individuals face charges in connection with the head-on collision between a passenger train and a freight convoy. The diverse list of defendants reflects the systemic nature of the failure alleged by prosecutors. Those standing trial include:
- The three station masters on duty the night of the crash at Larissa Central Station
- Their immediate supervisor (inspector)
- 28 former executives and employees from the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE), ERGOSE, and the Regulatory Authority for Railways (RAS)
- Two General Directors from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure
- Two former high-ranking executives from Hellenic Train
The primary charge facing 33 of the defendants is the felony of dangerous interference with railway transport with “eventual intent” (dolus eventualis), a crime that carries a potential life sentence. Other charges include multiple counts of negligent homicide and negligent bodily harm.
