The president of New Democracy, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, spoke out recently about the persecution of journalists and others who voice their views against those in power.

"The Greece of 2017, freedom of opinion and criticism in power are non-negotiable, although some are seeking the opposite, " Mitsotakis said in a written statement. In his writings, Mitsotakis refers to a lawsuit against cartoonist Andrew Petroulaki.

"I believe deeply that those who have positions of responsibility and positions of power must learn to live with criticism, although sometimes malicious," he said. "Of course, every politician, like any citizen, has the right to institute legal proceedings, if an attack does not constitute political criticism, but slander."

Mitsotakis said he carefully analyzed the contested work by Andrew Petroulaki for Panos Burnt.

"It is hard but, in my view, does not escape from under the political control of a publicist, who had the courage to express their opinion," he said.

He also offered encouraging words for Petroulaki.

"The control of power is provided by the Republic," Mitsotakis said. "Hold on tight then Andrew. I definitely do not belong in the space I have the honor to represent. Do not let anyone limit your creativity or silence your opinion. You are not alone."