All the MPs elected on the far-right Spartans party ticket in the recent general election, along with the convicted Nazi Ilias Kasidiaris, have been cleared of charges of deceiving voters. The trial followed an investigation led by the Supreme Court Prosecutor, Georgia Adeilini.

The accusation centred on claims that the Spartans party entered the election at the last minute after Kasidiaris was disqualified, effectively serving as a front to continue the political activity of Kasidiaris – a convicted Nazi and former member of the criminal Golden Dawn organisation – who was in prison at the time.

The acquittal of all eleven MPs, as well as Kasidiaris himself, who faced charges of instigating the alleged fraud, was announced in a packed courtroom. Kasidiaris and the other defendants were present, along with the party leader Vasilis Stigas. Stigas, who had previously publicly criticised Kasidiaris’ role, completely withdrew his statements during his testimony.

The court president declared, “I cannot say that voter deception was proven. No one can claim that voters did not know what they were doing, so they are acquitted.”

The verdict followed the prosecution’s recommendation. At the previous hearing, the prosecutor had emphasised that no evidence was found to prove that voters had been misled.

The investigation was sparked by accusations from the Spartans’ leader, Vasilis Stigas, who referred to a “Greek mafia” and “Don Corleone,” implying Kasidiaris. These claims prompted the Supreme Court Prosecutor to step in, launch a formal inquiry, and bring charges, leading to the court case.

It’s also worth noting that Kasidiaris, convicted for leading a criminal organisation, celebrated the Spartans’ election victory and entry into parliament with blatant defiance. Supported by a former senior member of Golden Dawn, he posted on Twitter from prison wearing a T-shirt with a Spartan helmet, declaring “WE HAVE WON” alongside a triumphant message.

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