ND spokesperson Nikos Romanos strongly criticized the statement, questioning whether PASOK’s leadership condones such calls for vigilantism. “Does PASOK approve of its local officials in Zakynthos inciting citizens to self-justice? Will they be expelled from the party, or will they be allowed to continue unchecked?” he asked.

ND’s Response

Romanos accused PASOK of following a path of “radicalization,” aligning itself with populist strategies that, he claimed, have been repeatedly rejected by Greek society. “Instead of responsibly fulfilling its institutional role, PASOK is opting for inflammatory rhetoric, reminiscent of SYRIZA’s approach,” he stated.

PASOK Zakynthos on Crime Concerns

PASOK’s local committee in Zakynthos released a strongly worded statement highlighting the surge in criminal activity on the island, criticizing the government’s inaction. “Burglaries, robberies, and even murders have turned daily life into a nightmare,” the statement read, accusing Public Order Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis and local ND MP Dionysis Aktypis of failing to deliver on their promises of enhanced police presence.

The statement further claimed that the additional police personnel sent to Zakynthos were merely trainees with no real law enforcement authority. It concluded with a stark warning to the government: “If serious policing measures are not taken immediately, citizens will take the law into their own hands, and the responsibility for what follows will rest solely on you.”

Political Fallout

The escalating rhetoric has intensified the political divide, with ND demanding PASOK clarify its stance on the statement. The issue raises broader concerns about public security and the political discourse surrounding law enforcement, as both parties position themselves ahead of future electoral battles.