The new leader of SYRIZA
Sokratis Famelos, according to the biography on his website, was born in 1966 in Athens, but grew up and has lived in Thessaloniki since 1970.
He was married to architect Popi Karagiannidou, who passed away in 2018, and has one son, Petros, a Mechanical Engineer from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, who is currently pursuing postgraduate studies in aerospace engineering with a scholarship at Georgia Tech, Atlanta, USA.
Profession – Education
The new leader of SYRIZA is a graduate Chemical Engineer, with a Master’s degree in Environmental Design. He studied at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (undergraduate) and the Hellenic Open University (MSc).
Parliamentary Activity (2015 – present)
In January 2015, he was elected for the first time as a SYRIZA Member of Parliament for Thessaloniki B. He was re-elected in September 2015, July 2019, and June 2023.
In October 2015, he was appointed Parliamentary Representative of SYRIZA.
In April 2016, he was appointed President of the Parliamentary Committee investigating the legality of political party funding and the media companies owned by them from national banking institutions.
In November 2016, he was appointed Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy until the July 2019 elections. During this period, Mr. Famelos highlights his main actions, including:
- Forest policy and wildfire prevention
- Protected areas and Natura 2000
- Climate change, energy, and adaptation policy
- Water resource management, flood risk management plans, national sewage plan
- Solid waste management, recycling, separate collection of organic waste, national strategy for circular economy
In August 2019, he was appointed SYRIZA’s Shadow Minister for Environment and Energy until July 2023.
In July 2023, he was unanimously elected as President of SYRIZA’s Parliamentary Group until August 27, 2024, when Stefanos Kasselakis decided to replace him with Nikos Pappas.
Political/Local Government Activity
He was a candidate for Mayor of Thermi in 2014, leading the “Citizens’ Intervention” party.
He served as a Municipal Councilor for Thermi from 2006 to 2015. He was also Deputy Mayor, President of the Consultation Committee, and President of the Municipal Culture, Environment, and Sports Enterprise of Thermi.
Member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors of the Central Macedonia Regional Union of Municipalities from 2014 to 2015.
He has been a member of the Environment, Spatial Planning, and Infrastructure Committee of the Central Union of Municipalities (KEDKE) from 2010 to 2015.
He served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the Solid Waste Management Authority of Central Macedonia from 2011 to 2014.
Founding member of the Coalition of the Left and SYRIZA.
Member of SYRIZA’s Central Committee since 2016.
Social Activity
He is a member of SOSTE TO NERO, the Friends and Solidarity Association of ERT3, the Social Medical Clinic of Thermi, and the Intermunicipal Committee for the Tagarades Landfill.
Trade Union Activity
Elected representative in the National Delegation of the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) from 2003 to 2015.
Elected to the Management of the Technical Chamber of Thessaloniki (TEE/TKM) from 1997 to 2015.
Famelos worked on environmental engineering projects, water resource management, recycling, solid and liquid waste management, regional development, and renewable energy. He served as Director of Development at the Eastern Thessaloniki Development Company, ANATOLIKI AE, from 2001-2013 and was responsible for managing international, innovative European projects and recycling initiatives.
Avlonitou: We have a result. Famelos is the president of SYRIZA-PS with 50.5%!
Official results to be announced soon by Mariliza Xenogiannakopoulou
Sokratis Famelos Heading to Koumoundourou for Victory Speech
Sokratis Famelos has reportedly emerged as the winner of SYRIZA’s internal elections in the first round, surpassing 50% of the vote, according to sources. He is preparing to deliver his victory speech at Koumoundourou.
Limnos Votes Against Apostolos Gkletsos, Giving Him Zero Support
Limnos overwhelmingly supported Sokratis Famelos with 67.2% of the vote. However, Apostolos Gkletsos failed to secure a single vote, scoring 0% in both ballots and percentages, drawing significant attention.
According to limnoslive.gr, today’s elections saw higher participation compared to the November 2, 2024, elections for representatives, held before the last wave of member departures. Notably, many new members registered at local voting centers in Myrina and Moudros.
The results from the two voting centers, listed alphabetically by candidate name, are:
- Apostolos Gkletsos: 0%
- Pavlos Polakis: 29.3%
- Sokratis Famelos: 67.2%
- Nikolas Farantouris: 3.4%
Apostolos Gkletsos: “I Had No Personal Agenda, Just Aimed to Support Participation”
Apostolos Gkletsos expressed satisfaction with voter turnout, emphasizing that the party and the new president must now analyze the results quickly and seriously.
“We’re standing strong, that’s certain, and we’re alive. From here on, it’s up to the president to make many united and thoughtful decisions. We must show that we learned from our mistakes and move forward,” he said.
Gkletsos added that his mission was to encourage participation and amplify important issues. “We achieved that,” he stated, pointing to his viral comments about wind turbines as highlighting the “Mitsotakis fiasco.”
Reactions from Sokratis Famelos’ Headquarters on Election Results
Satisfaction prevails at Sokratis Famelos’ headquarters as he approaches a 50% vote share.
According to his team, whether the result will be decided today depends on local dynamics, such as significant differences in regions like Crete or Thessaloniki and the combined percentage of the third and fourth candidates—whether it exceeds 10%.
With 42% of votes counted:
- Sokratis Famelos: 49.76%
- Pavlos Polakis: 42.67%
- Nikolas Farantouris: 5.51%
- Apostolos Gletsos: 2.05%
Andreas Drymiotis: SYRIZA’s Results Are Questionable
Andreas Drymiotis expressed concerns about the results announced by SYRIZA, commenting on the figures shared by Koumoundourou with 20% of votes counted.
The political analyst, speaking to ERT, stated that the results bothered him because they lacked decimal points.
“Methodologically, results without decimals are not possible, which means there was some ‘manipulation,'” remarked Drymiotis.
Zachariadis: SYRIZA Is Not Over
“We should take joy in the participation,” commented Kostas Zachariadis on ERT, referring to the electoral process.
The level of turnout demonstrated that “SYRIZA remains the dominant force in a space that some tried to fragment. With 70,000 participants, SYRIZA is not over.”
Polakis Leads in Chania
In Mournies and Platanias, as expected, Polakis faces no competition.
Ragkousis: SYRIZA Needs Rebranding as a Party
“Some political figures and SYRIZA as a party need rebranding,” stated Yiannis Ragkousis, speaking to ERTNews.
Regarding participation in SYRIZA’s electoral process, Mr. Ragkousis stated:
“I must tell you that at this moment, across Greece, there is a general sense of satisfaction. Speaking with many friends and organizations nationwide, people feel particularly pleased.
I’m not talking about the sentiment in Koumoundouros or among officials, but among the public. There is a sense of relief because, to be very honest, there was fear and concern. When a party goes through two such significant splits—first with the New Left and now with the former president and his followers—it’s natural to expect the worst.
Especially since 45,000 people voted during the delegate election, which had taken on the nature of a contest between Mr. Kasselakis and those wanting to move forward without him. With Mr. Kasselakis leaving and claiming, along with his supporters, that they took half the party, the concerns were understandable.”
Commenting on Mr. Tsipras and the challenges ahead for SYRIZA, Mr. Ragkousis added:
“I believe that things remain difficult for SYRIZA. Today is a good day; it shows we are still alive, but we have many problems to solve.
The significant event of this Sunday is that, after several months, we will finally have a full leadership hierarchy. We will have a president, as we haven’t had one for months, who will shoulder significant responsibility to guide the party, starting with making the right decisions.
I believe—and I think many of us agree, perhaps even the majority—that SYRIZA needs what you’ve been referring to for some time: rebranding, both as a party and for its political figures,” Mr. Ragkousis concluded.
Famellos Leads with 20% of Votes Counted
The first official result was announced by Koumoundouros. With 20% of the votes counted, the percentages are as follows:
Sokratis Famellos: 49%,
Pavlos Polakis: 44%,
Nikolas Farantouris: 5%,
Apostolos Gkletsos: 2%.
Gerovassili: SYRIZA Is here, stronger than before, with fewer burdens
“The strong turnout is the best response to those who predicted the end of SYRIZA. SYRIZA is here, emerging from this crisis stronger than ever. We will continue our work to support society,” said Olga Gerovassili upon arriving at Koumoundourou.
Asked about SYRIZA losing its position as the main opposition following the departure of MPs aligned with Stefanos Kasselakis, Ms. Gerovassili stated this happened “due to the responsibility of others, against the will of the Greek people.”
“The essence is that SYRIZA is here, stronger than before, and carrying fewer burdens,” she emphasized.
Participation Exceeds 70,000, Says Famellos
Sokratis Famellos is expected to head to his office in Omonia, expressing satisfaction with voter turnout, along with his team. His team estimates that participation will surpass 70,000 voters, noting that in some polling stations—such as those in central Piraeus, Halandri, Chalkida, Petroupoli, and Ilion—the turnout has doubled compared to the previous delegate election process.
Optimism in Polakis Camp for the Results
Pavlos Polakis has been at his office since the afternoon, accompanied by his family and associates. While waiting for the results, Mr. Polakis expressed optimism. However, he acknowledged that there is still time until the polls close. Earlier, his team shared their satisfaction with the turnout, noting they were initially cautious in setting expectations due to prior concerns.
Koumoundourou Pleased with Turnout – Candidates Await Results
Smiles have appeared in Koumoundourou due to the voter turnout in the internal party elections. While the official benchmark was not disclosed, it was widely understood to be the 43,000 voters who participated in the delegate elections. The current turnout, as noted by party sources, demonstrates the party’s resilience and refutes those who, as they claim, had plans to dissolve it. The candidates are at their respective headquarters, waiting for the outcome.
More than 60,000 citizens have participated in SYRIZA’s internal elections, according to Koumoundourou.
Voting Results Expected by 10:30 PM. Following a one-hour extension of voting, results for the SYRIZA presidential elections are expected between 10:00 and 10:30 PM.
Pavlos Polakis: “We Are Here to Win Again!” In a Facebook post, Pavlos Polakis announced the extension of the voting period and emphasized the resilience of SYRIZA supporters. “We don’t stop until the very last moment! SYRIZA-PS and the democratic faction are answering the plans of corruption aimed at dismantling and liquidating SYRIZA-PS. We are here, we endured, and we will win again!” Polakis declared.
Koumoundourou Confirms Voting Extension. SYRIZA announced that polls would now close at 8:00 PM, citing long queues at many voting centers as the reason for the extension.
Apostolos Gletsos: “Leftists Must Unite Against Covert Attacks.” Apostolos Gletsos, a SYRIZA candidate, took to Facebook to urge his comrades to vote, highlighting the sophisticated and expensive tactics used against left-wing politics. “Today, the war against the Left is conducted in subtle, scientific, and costly ways, often so discreet that the extent of the attack is hard to grasp,” Gletsos stated. He concluded, “The Left has always fought for equality, dignity, and honor. Comrades, vote for SYRIZA-PS so that every day becomes a celebration of struggle. Together, we move forward.”
Return of Veteran Members. Sources from Koumoundourou observed a noticeable return of veteran party members, particularly in Attica, who had distanced themselves from SYRIZA since 2015.
Over 53,000 Voters by 5:00 PM. SYRIZA reported that as of 5:00 PM, over 53,000 voters had participated across Greece and abroad, showcasing strong engagement in the electoral process.
Lighthearted Moments at Polling Stations. Even pets joined the scene, as several voters were accompanied by their dogs to the polling stations.
Giannis Sarakiotis Seen with Kasselakis in Gorgopotamos. Giannis Sarakiotis, a SYRIZA MP from Fthiotida, raised speculation about aligning with Stefanos Kasselakis’s faction. Sarakiotis attended commemorative events at Gorgopotamos alongside Kasselakis, choosing not to represent SYRIZA formally during the occasion, despite being present.
“We are here,” says Gerovasili from Arta With the phrase “We are here,” Olga Gerovasili commented on the participation of citizens in SYRIZA’s internal elections.
The Vice President of the Hellenic Parliament voted in Arta and noted, “The large participation of left-wing progressive citizens is the best answer to those who rushed to announce the end of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance,” and added, “We endured and we emerge stronger to defend society against the unjust policies of New Democracy.”
Over 50,000 participated by 16:00 More than 50,000 people had cast their votes by 16:00 for the election of SYRIZA’s new leader, according to Koumundourou.
The process will be extended in case of long lines The electoral process will be extended in any polling stations where citizens are waiting to vote by 7 PM, the designated closing time for the ballots.
Higher turnout than in the congress election process, according to Koumundourou According to reports, participation has surpassed the turnout in the congress election process, with high participation rates in areas such as Western Attica, the Peloponnese, and Heraklion, Crete.
Over 43,000 voters According to an update from the Central Electoral Committee, participation continues to increase, with more than 43,000 citizens having cast their votes by 15:00 in polling stations across the country and abroad, including electronic voting for Greeks living abroad.
At 3 PM, voters surpassed the symbolic threshold of 43,000, matching the total participation in the recent internal process for congress elections. “Members and non-members are coming in increasing numbers, showing their support for the next day of SYRIZA-PS,” the statement read.
The announcement also highlighted that “there is enough time until the closing of the polls, and every vote strengthens the positions and future of the party.”
Comments on X about “cardboard” ballot boxes There have been many comments on X about photos showing SYRIZA officials in front of cardboard boxes at polling stations, with some mistakenly assuming these boxes are the ballot boxes. However, these are actually donation boxes used for the financial support of the party’s media outlets.
Results will be announced One and a half hours after the closing of the polls, the first estimate of the results is expected from Koumundourou. The polls, which opened at 8 AM, will close at 7 PM, unless the voting process is extended in some polling stations.
Polakis: Truly great participation In a new post on Facebook, Pavlos Polakis spoke about the great participation in the electoral process.
Sokratis Famellos and his mother’s vote – Ah, mom! With a video on TikTok and using his mother’s vote, Sokratis Famellos expressed his satisfaction with the participation.
Elena Akrita: If Polakis is elected, I will resign and go home Elena Akrita, Member of Parliament for SYRIZA-PS, made known her intention to leave the party if Pavlos Polakis is elected. She stated she would resign from Parliament, “hand over her seat, and go home.” She wrote in her post:
“Labor, social, and human rights go hand in hand.” In the debate, Pavlos Polakis clearly endorsed his homophobic agenda. When asked what line he would give to the Parliamentary Group if he were then the President of SYRIZA-PS regarding the Equality in Marriage bill, he muttered something about an imaginary “expansion of the civil partnership,” something that only exists in the realm of the most creative imagination. He again hid behind surrogacy, deliberately ignoring the amendment proposed by Athena Linou, which strictly tightened the conditions of the process. In this way, Pavlos Polakis sided with the far-right parties and the KKE, who voted against marriage equality. “All are equal, but some are more equal than others.” As for the labor rights he champions, we saw his stance on debate night when he bypassed, without a word, the unpaid colleagues at Avgi and Kokkino.
It’s Sunday afternoon, and we still don’t know who will be elected. However, since I don’t find it ethical to take a position afterward – from a safe distance – I declare: If Pavlos Polakis is elected President of SYRIZA-PS, I will resign, hand over my seat to the party, and go home. I promise. I entered politics for one reason: to fight for human rights. If I can no longer continue this fight, I will leave. I will not stop fighting for equality, visibility, and inclusion, as I have always done. This means we are not lost. We will meet again in the same places. We will fight together for the same invisible people. Elena Akrita Member of Parliament for SYRIZA-PS Responsible for the Equality and Human Rights Sector.
Participation reached 38,000 by 2 PM Regarding participation in the process, Koumundourou announced that:
- By 2 PM, 38,000 citizens had exercised their voting rights at polling stations across the country and abroad.
- The flow is increasing and is expected to surpass 40,000 by the middle of the process.
- No technical or other issues have been reported during the process.
Voting continues Voters can drop money into special “piggy banks” at polling stations to financially support SYRIZA’s media outlets:
And a priest at the polls for the election of the new president of SYRIZA.
At 7 PM, the polls will close, and there is satisfaction with the participation so far.
A key challenge for Koumoundourou is voter turnout in the elections
All four candidates for the leadership of SYRIZA issued calls for participation.
Approximately twice as many people had voted in SYRIZA’s internal elections during the first four hours of the process last year.
Alexis Tsipras Votes in Kypseli
Former SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras cast his vote at the 26th Athens Elementary School, located at 63 Fokionos Negri Street in Kypseli, at 12:00 PM.
Participation Announcement Expected at 12:30 PM
The first official announcement regarding voter turnout is expected at 12:30 PM. SYRIZA’s Koumoundouros headquarters remains optimistic about voter participation.
Nikolas Pappas Votes
At 11:52 AM, Nikolas Pappas, the head of SYRIZA’s parliamentary group, cast his vote.
Polakis: “Those Who Stepped Aside Must Return”
Pavlos Polakis urged party members and supporters who had stepped back to return to the fold. After voting, he declared that SYRIZA would launch an offensive beginning Monday with a targeted and reform-focused agenda, addressing both state systems and the judiciary, which he referred to as the “great patient.” Polakis expressed confidence in his victory and called for unity to propel both the party and the country into a new era.
Nikolas Farantouris: “SYRIZA Can Lead Again”
Nikolas Farantouris expressed confidence in SYRIZA’s ability to take center stage in Greek politics. After casting his vote, he emphasized the importance of strengthening the party and urged citizens to participate in shaping its future.
Voting Process Runs Smoothly
According to reports, the electoral process has been running smoothly across Greece, with polling stations fully operational.
First Participation Estimate at Noon
Koumoundouros officials noted a steady stream of voters since polling stations opened. The first estimate on turnout will be shared shortly.
Apostolos Gkletsos Votes
Apostolos Gkletsos cast his vote in Pangrati, expressing hope for a bright day for the party, democracy, and Greece. “I hope SYRIZA emerges united and stronger, ready to fulfill its historical and social mission,” he stated.
Pavlos Polakis’ Social Media Call to Action
Pavlos Polakis issued a call to SYRIZA supporters via Facebook, urging them to head to the polls.
Nikolas Farantouris’ Message
After voting in Pallini, Farantouris emphasized the importance of creating a large, extroverted SYRIZA. He invited citizens to support this vision for the party.
Sokratis Famellos Votes
Sokratis Famellos cast his vote in Thermi and made a heartfelt appeal for voter participation, calling for a “restart” for SYRIZA.
Famellos highlighted:
- The positivity surrounding the day’s turnout.
- The joy and optimism among SYRIZA members and progressive citizens.
- The importance of supporting the party’s renewed vision.
Famellos thanked electoral committees, volunteers, and supporters and emphasized that SYRIZA must address real-life problems and make tangible improvements for Greece.
Koumoundouros to Provide Turnout Estimates in Two Hours
After two hours of voting, SYRIZA officials reported no technical issues and consistent voter flow nationwide.
Runoff Scheduled for Next Sunday if Necessary
If no candidate secures a majority today, a second round of voting will take place next Sunday, December 1, with the same voter base as today.
Alexis Tsipras Votes at 12 PM in Kypseli
Alexis Tsipras participated in the election at Kypseli’s 26th Elementary School, at 63 Fokionos Negri Street.
Candidates’ Voting Schedule
- Sokratis Famellos: Voted at 10:30 AM in Thermi, with later appearances at election centers in Thessaloniki and Kordelio-Evosmos. He will monitor the results at SYRIZA’s headquarters in Leonidou this evening.
- Pavlos Polakis: Voted at 11:30 AM at the Moschato-Tavros Cultural Center. He will follow the results at SYRIZA’s offices on Syngrou Avenue.
- Nikolas Farantouris: Voted at 10:30 AM at the Old Pallini Town Hall.
- Apostolos Gkletsos: Cast his vote in Pangrati at 11:30 AM.
Voting Information
Voting will continue until 7 PM unless an extension is required. For detailed rules and voting locations.
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