Unfortunately, our community is shaken by an ongoing case between PRONIA and the President of the Federation Mr. Yannis Kostoulias. The mutual accusations, tension, and allegations of physical and psychological violence create a bleak landscape that tarnishes the image of the Greek community.
Terrorism and assault
The controversy appears to have culminated on 28 March 2025, when Mr Kostoulias complained that he was trapped in the office of the CEO of PRONIA, Ms Sylvia Chatziantoniou, along with two other people, without being allowed to leave. Subsequently, according to Mr. Kostoulias’ allegations, two men, allegedly ‘bullies’, entered the building and verbally and physically assaulted him in the presence of the staff of PRONIA. The CEO, it is alleged, not only failed to protect the President of the Federation but allegedly allowed the intrusion and the assault on him.
Our investigation reveals that the individuals whom Mr. Kostoulias claims are “bullies” are the sons of Mrs Sardelis, a member of the Federation, with whom Mr. Kostoulias had earlier had an altercation. It is also reported that Mrs Sardelis became indisposed because of M.r Kostoulias’ behaviour, and an ambulance was called to the scene. Her sons came to pick up their mother and, if Mr Kostoulia’s testimony is true, they saw him and argued with him.
In fact, Mr Kostoulias says that they threatened him and he reported the incident to the police.
It is worth noting that relations between Mr Kostoulias and Ms Sardelis have been strained for some time and several incidents of confrontation between them have been recorded. Indeed, several times in the past, the police have been called in because of tensions during Federation meetings.
In addition, an employee of the Federation has informed us that she has filed a complaint with WorkCover against Mr. Kostoulias for workplace intimidation and verbal abuse. Due to the fact that the case is ongoing and is expected to be investigated by the FairWork Commission, the individual in question wishes to remain anonymous at this time.
Controversies & differing narratives
For her part, PRONIA’s CEO, Ms. Sylvia Hatziantoniou made the following statement yesterday, “On Friday, an incident occurred at PRONIA’s facilities that impacted members of our team.
Since then, various comments and articles have been published about PRONIA and the Federation of Greek Seniors.
PRONIA and the Federation share a long history. PRONIA has consistently supported the Federation and the Greek community and remains committed to this commitment.
The Federation is and will always remain welcome at PRONIA.
PRONIA will not make any further statements at this time.”
However, we do have a letter from PRONIA (December 19, 2024) to Mr. Kostoulia, in which he mentions the meeting of the CEO, Mr. Spiliotis and Mr. Lioupa with him on December 11, during which they expressed their concern about his inappropriate behavior while at the PRONIA offices. In that letter they told him that his behaviour had resulted in many members of the PRONOIA staff feeling unsafe and that his behaviour “is unacceptable”.
They warned him that if there are any further incidents of inappropriate behaviour that creates a feeling of insecurity among PRONIA staff they will be forced to evict him from the premises and prohibit him from returning to it.
They point out that the Federation of Senior Citizens is welcome, implying that only he will be unwelcome.
Following the events of last Friday, according to statements made by Mr. Kostoulia himself, he is now unwelcome in that place.
Financial mismanagement shadows
In this chaotic environment, Greeknews24 reports bring to light financial questions surrounding Mr Kostoulias’ management of $26,000 in funds. According to the reports, the President received funding for events and programs that were either cancelled or carried out without transparency. The allegations raise serious questions about the management of the money and the accountability of the Federation.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kostoulias has informed us that he has commissioned chartered accountants to audit all the Federation’s finances and the findings of the investigation will be made public when it is completed.
A sad conclusion
It is with great sadness that we are watching these unacceptable and damaging developments with accusations and shadows of corruption that are damaging to the existence of our community.
Instead of seeing examples of solidarity and cooperation, we are sinking into a quagmire of internal conflicts, divisive actions, and personal ambitions.
Let everyone assume their responsibilities to clear the landscape and bring about the much-needed peace and progress that most expatriates desire.
