Greek parties clash over ban of public gatherings in light of Polytechnic anniversary

SYRIZA accused the government of employing authoritarian tactics

The political controversy between Greek parties on the left and ruling New Democracy peaked in light of tomorrow’s November 17th Polytechnic uprising anniversary and SYRIZA’s decision to take part in a march despite Covid-19 restrictions imposed the government.

Major opposition party SYRIZA, along with Communist KKE and DiEM25 co-signed a letter expressing their opposition to the ban on public gatherings, calling the decision reminiscent of the days of the Junta in Greece and authoritarian regimes.

The government responded SYRIZA was acting hypocritical as it had also implemented similar measures in the past during it rule.

The government has implemented a series of tough lockdown measures to curb the spike in Covid-19, including banning public gatherings.

Every year the Polytechnic celebrations include a march to the Polytechnic in Athens and then to the US Embassy.

The ban, which runs from Sunday, November 15, to Wednesday, November 18, comes as Greece prepares to celebrate the 47th anniversary of the Athens Polytechnic Uprising on November 17.

The uprising was a youth revolt that ultimately led to the collapse of the military junta a few months later and the death of at least 24 people.

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