The future of SYRIZA as the main opposition party is uncertain as its parliamentary group faces a potential collapse. The rift between former party leader Stefanos Kasselakis and SYRIZA’s leadership has escalated, leading to resignations and the looming creation of a new political entity by Kasselakis and his supporters, the “Kasselistas.” This split threatens to reduce SYRIZA’s standing in parliament, jeopardizing its role as the main opposition party, with PASOK poised to take its place.
The Crucial Role of Theodora Tzakri
Theodora Tzakri, the Secretary of SYRIZA’s parliamentary group, has become a key figure in this political drama. Her potential departure from the party could decisively push SYRIZA into third place in parliament, officially elevating PASOK to the role of the main opposition. This shift would diminish SYRIZA’s political influence and undermine its efforts to regain footing.
Amidst this, there was a flurry of behind-the-scenes negotiations on whether to support or prevent further defections to Kasselakis’s new movement. Already, MPs Petros Pappas, Rallia Christidou, Alexandros Avlonitis, and Kyriaki Malama have joined Kasselakis, intensifying fears of a mass exodus from SYRIZA.
Strategic Moves and Legal Battles
In an attempt to prevent further resignations, SYRIZA’s leadership, led by Nikos Pappas, has been trying to solidify party unity. They are also approaching prominent party figures such as MPs Elena Akrita and Evangelos Apostolakis, seeking to prevent more defections. The outcome of this internal power struggle may determine whether SYRIZA can maintain its position or if it will face a parliamentary downgrade.
Additionally, SYRIZA is preparing to take legal action against Stefanos Kasselakis, following accusations by MP Pavlos Polakis about Kasselakis’s involvement in offshore companies. These accusations have sparked plans for a full investigation into Kasselakis’s financial declarations (Pothen Esches), aiming to challenge his credibility and question his political motives.
Kasselakis’s Legal Counterattack
In response, Kasselakis announced his intention to file lawsuits against individuals accusing him of financial misconduct. He criticized these accusations as deliberate slander intended to damage his reputation. Kasselakis claims his financial disclosures are accurate and transparent, dismissing the allegations as baseless attacks.
The political and legal turmoil surrounding the party reflects a deeper crisis. The potential loss of parliamentary strength and continued defections could lead to SYRIZA’s marginalization, marking a significant shift in the Greek political landscape. As the drama unfolds, the coming days will be critical for the future positioning of SYRIZA and its role in Greece’s political opposition.
