The leadership team of PASOK, under Nikos Androulakis, is under scrutiny after the disappointing result in the European elections, prompting increased internal challenges and pressure for an immediate presidential election to revitalize the party. Key figures, including Konstantinopoulos, Geroulanos, Nikos Papandreou, Giannakopoulou, Liakouli, and Kastanidis, are advocating for an accelerated leadership change process, highlighting a sense of urgency concerning the party’s direction. Internal elections scheduled for 2025 have invoked dissatisfaction, with many pushing for prompt action within PASOK due to recent setbacks and perceived delays in addressing critical issues.

The issue of leadership has been publicly raised thus far by Odysseas Konstantinopoulos in a letter, co-drafted by Pavlos Geroulanos, followed by MEP Nikos Papandreou with an article in protothema.gr, and supported by Nantia Giannakopoulou, Evangelia Liakouli, and Haris Kastanidis.

The evolving dynamics within the party underscore the need for cohesion and strategic reevaluation amidst growing discontent among members and leaders.

With each passing minute, more party officials believe that Haris Doukas has decided to enter the race. People in the Athens Mayor’s office support this view, noting that Doukas is concerned about the current state of the party and hinting that he will articulate his political vision at the right time. Doukas, who managed to get elected against the “blue” Kostas Bakoyannis with support from Kostas Zachariadis of SYRIZA, is seen as a political figure capable of uniting and attracting support from the center-right.

However, a significant question arises regarding what will happen to the Municipality of Athens if Doukas decides to pursue and ultimately wins the PASOK leadership, given his recent election to the country’s largest municipality.

According to those encouraging him to run for PASOK leadership, the bet for the center-left in the upcoming national elections could be won by Haris Doukas, as he has been building communication channels and alliances since his election to the municipality. Doukas is preparing for two significant public appearances in the next 24 hours, where he will begin to unfold his plans. He has an interview scheduled for Sunday and a speech on Tuesday at the Alexis Tsipras Institute’s Conference on Peace and Sustainable Development.

Additionally, the 33-year-old Manolis Christodoulakis is close to announcing his candidacy. Party officials, particularly those from his generation, are urging the youngest member of parliament to compete in the internal party elections. Insiders indicate that he is seriously considering this and will present his political platform in the coming days.

Haris Doukas Leadership Consideration

Liakouli on PASOK Leadership Issue: Now is the Time for Everyone to Speak Freely

Evangelia Liakouli, Secretary of PASOK’s Parliamentary Group, expressed that it is the right time for everyone to voice their opinions freely. She emphasized the need for open discussions within party organs to address both minor and major issues with calmness, respect, and magnanimity. She reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that everyone can express their views freely.

Kastanidis: A Leader Should Resign if They Fail

Former Minister Haris Kastanidis supported accelerating the leadership election process, stating that a leader who fails should have the decency to resign. He mentioned that this matter should be resolved quickly to focus on restructuring the progressive space.

Giannakopoulou on Potential Candidacy

Nadia Giannakopoulou criticized the handling of PASOK’s recent electoral performance and expressed the need for internal discussions without fear of being labeled as introspective. She did not confirm whether she would run for leadership but highlighted the importance of frequent and meaningful meetings within the party to address and correct course.

• Evangelia Liakouli: Advocates for open expression and discussion within PASOK.
• Haris Kastanidis: Emphasizes the importance of resignation for failed leaders and rapid resolution of leadership issues.
• Nadia Giannakopoulou: Calls for honest internal discussions and criticizes the current leadership’s approach.

These developments reflect the ongoing debates and considerations within PASOK regarding its future leadership and direction.