Following the recent withdrawal of Milena Apostolaki from the leadership race, the remaining candidates are now focusing on the intra-party dynamics in Attica, particularly in North Athens, her electoral district. This area saw a significant turnout in the 2021 leadership election. Although Apostolaki did not endorse any particular candidate, it is expected that her supporters will eventually align with one of the remaining contenders for the PASOK/KINAL leadership. The question now is whether other candidates might also withdraw and, if so, when.
Apostolaki announced her withdrawal just before the final stretch of her campaign, which she had initiated on July 1, following the Central Committee of PASOK’s decision to hold the elections on October 6 and 13. Despite nearly reaching the required 5,000 signatures for her nomination, she chose to step down after consulting about 100 executives and members in Agia Paraskevi. In her statement, she emphasized the need to be part of the solution rather than the crisis and vowed to support PASOK’s unity and strength.
Meanwhile, the other candidates are continuing their public engagements and tours. Haris Doukas, Anna Diamantopoulou, and Nadia Giannakopoulou met briefly at the Presidential Palace during an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Republic’s restoration. All three appeared cheerful and optimistic about PASOK’s future.
Haris Doukas is traveling to Paris at the invitation of the Mayor of Paris, Ann Hidalgo, to attend the opening of the Olympic Games. Doukas and Hidalgo previously discussed cooperation on social inequalities and the climate crisis. After returning from Paris, Doukas will continue his tours in Attica and other regions, including visits to Corinth, Kos, and Crete.
Anna Diamantopoulou is organizing her campaign team, with former MP Hara Kefalidou managing her press office and former MP Vagelio Schinaraki supporting her efforts in Crete. Diamantopoulou is focusing on a comprehensive policy plan to establish PASOK as a major governing party.
