Former Attica Regional Governor and President of the Medical Association Giorgos Patoulis recently opened up in an in-depth interview with Antonis Sroiter and First Word of Proto Thema. Reflecting on his career, personal challenges, and aspirations, Patoulis candidly discussed everything from his political tenure to his personal life.

A Shift in Daily Life

Patoulis spoke about his transition away from public administration, sharing that he now dedicates more time to his medical practice, seeing patients regularly. Reflecting on recent years, he admitted that 2023 and 2024 were particularly challenging. However, he embraced a resilient outlook, remarking, “What doesn’t kill you is good.”

Personal Life: Divorce, New Beginnings, and Fatherhood

Touching on his separation from Marina Stavraki, Patoulis emphasized that he holds no ill feelings, wishing her happiness. He clarified that his new relationship with Nancy Koilou, whom he married on November 3, 2024, began only after his divorce. The couple is now eagerly awaiting the arrival of their baby boy in a few weeks. On becoming a father again, Patoulis said, “I want to relive it,” expressing excitement about the new chapter in his life.

The Controversial Zebekiko and Its Fallout

Patoulis did not shy away from addressing the infamous zebekiko dance at the July 2023 expatriate celebration at Zappeion. This public display, heavily criticized, allegedly contributed to his removal as regional governor. “If that was the reason or excuse, so be it. I had achieved so much in public administration that I didn’t want to stand in the way of my party’s decision,” he noted. Reflecting on the moment, he added, “It was a fleeting instance, and I paid the price.”

Addressing Flood Control and Criticism

Responding to questions about flood management in Attica, particularly after his successor Nikos Hardalias conducted a management audit, Patoulis defended his tenure. He highlighted initiatives such as doubling budgets for stream cleaning, introducing a 600-km stream cleaning observatory, and conducting risk assessments with university experts. He also emphasized the limitations regional authorities face regarding infrastructure responsibilities, stating, “We stepped in even when it wasn’t our duty because no one else was taking action.”

Future Political Aspirations

Although stepping back from regional governance, Patoulis revealed he hasn’t ruled out a return to politics. He expressed interest in running for Parliament but noted that nothing concrete is in motion yet.

Relaxed and philosophical about the twists and turns of his life, Patoulis summed up his approach, “Clear skies fear no lightning.”