The structural changes proposed by SYRIZA’s President, Stefanos Kasselakis, have triggered significant shifts within the party. Yesterday, during a meeting of the party’s Statutory Committee, Kasselakis suggested a potential rebranding of the party as the “Coalition of Modern Left” rather than “SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance.” However, beyond the name change, the more impactful proposal involves a three-term limit for SYRIZA MPs, a move that could prompt several senior figures to relocate to different electoral districts.

This proposed change could lead to a reshuffling of prominent MPs with longstanding ties to their constituencies. Those who have already served three terms might be required to seek election in other regions, potentially opening the door for new party members and creating opportunities for Kasselakis’ inner circle to gain a foothold in the next parliamentary session. Among the “Kasselistas” affected by this limit are prominent figures like Nikos Pappas, Theodora Tzakri, Nina Kasimati, and Pavlos Polakis, all of whom would need to reconsider their electoral strategies if the proposal is implemented.

For some, such as Tzakri, the rule may prove advantageous, especially given the narrow margins in her Pella seat during the 2023 elections. For others, like Pappas and Polakis, this could force them away from their strongholds, raising questions about the future of their political influence. Polakis, for example, may face competition from the President’s cousin, Vasilis Kasselakis, who is rumored to be interested in the Chania seat.

Moreover, the proposed limit isn’t just a challenge for Kasselakis’ allies; it also affects loyalists of former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. Longtime party figures such as Olga Gerovasili and Sokratis Famellos will also be impacted, forcing them to either leave their districts or risk losing their seats. The proposal even affects MPs like Kostas Barkas and Giorgos Psychogios, who have been in office for several years.

This significant shift has sparked debate within SYRIZA. Former Deputy Secretary of SYRIZA, Giorgos Vasiliadis, criticized the three-term rule, calling it “nonsensical” and questioning whether the party was treating its members like a football team by making “transfers.” He implied that the proposal reflects a misunderstanding of politics, adding layer of controversy to the proposed reforms.

As the political landscape within SYRIZA continues to evolve, the party faces internal tensions over how to balance loyalty, renewal, and electoral strategy.