Internal tensions and Kasselakis’s exit

During the congress, tensions surfaced with the party revealing what it described as Stefanos Kasselakis’s “true intentions” and an orchestrated “plan” that had been unfolding. According to a detailed announcement, Kasselakis abandoned the congress early on, opting not to engage in the voting process. His exit and the announcement of a new party minutes later, the congress stated, proved that his “planning and preparation had been ongoing for some time,” undermining the party and its principles.

“This entire show—his dramatic exit, his provocations, and the verbal attacks—had nothing to do with the Left or the progressive cause,” read SYRIZA’s statement. “In Democracy, there are rules, and it seems Kasselakis cannot accept them. Yesterday’s spectacle outside the congress was a communication stunt, staged while he had the rival party and offices already prepared.”

Reactions from SYRIZA’s presidential candidates

SYRIZA’s presidential candidates, who together represent a broad spectrum of leftist ideologies, reinforced calls for unity and warned against defections. Pavlos Polakis asserted, “I wish Kasselakis well, but his efforts to undermine SYRIZA have failed.” Apostolos Gletsos added that Kasselakis’s tactics reached “the last step of humiliation,” as he relied on “people who have no connection to leftist ideals.”

Sokratis Famouslos expressed confidence in SYRIZA’s role in achieving change, noting that 65% of delegates backed the four nominations, countering recent reports of a “boycott.” He stressed that SYRIZA–PS remains the only path to meaningful political transformation. Nikolas Farandouris also warned MPs contemplating independence: “History is never kind to those who turn their backs at crucial moments.” He highlighted that the party’s clear ideological framework and governing vision remain steadfast.

A call for unity and renewed determination

The congress concluded with a strong message of cohesion. “SYRIZA–Progressive Alliance will move forward, united, with greater strength and determination,” read the final announcement, emphasising the party’s commitment to “the principles, values, and ideas of the Left.” With a clear program and a unified front, the party pledged to challenge the current government, pushing for a progressive agenda and social change.

As the party prepares for future challenges, its leadership underlined that those attempting to undermine SYRIZA–PS from within would be held accountable to its supporters and the broader base of progressive and democratic citizens in Greece. The congress reaffirmed that SYRIZA is determined to regroup, strengthen, and stand as a united force against the policies of the ruling New Democracy government.

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