A clash between Pavlos Geroulanos and Haris Doukas unfolded on Wednesday evening against the backdrop of the event marking 51 years of PASOK, with some observers noting that it disrupted the spirit of unity prevailing at Zappeion.

“Doukas’ trajectory has been delayed because he chose to run in the internal party elections,” said Pavlos Geroulanos, while at the same time making a pointed reference to the rapid pace lately adopted by the Mayor of Athens, who is, as is well known, in open confrontation with government ministers over Vasilissis Olgas Avenue.

“Good or bad mayor, the citizens will judge me. What I know is that I am giving my very best. But it both surprises and saddens me that today, September 3rd—a day of unity, a day of remembrance and honor, when the priority is to show we stand as one, that we can create the conditions for change in the country through PASOK—such remarks are being made. And furthermore, I believe that in the immediate future Mr. Geroulanos, who is also an MP for Athens A and, I assume, wants to help solve Athens’ problems, should stand by my side in the major battles ahead of us—like Vasilissis Olgas, and many others—in the major ruptures we want to bring about,” replied Haris Doukas, adding that “my office is open and I am waiting for him so we can discuss all the issues that concern the citizens.” The crucial point, he added on Kontra TV, “is that we must all work together to confront a difficult period for the country and create conditions for change and upheaval—not introversion and not friendly fire.”

Anna Diamantopoulou, speaking on Action24, expressed her support for the initiatives of the Mayor of Athens, while sending messages in all directions on the occasion of September 3rd, reminding everyone of the urgent need for the party to hold a Congress.

Diamantopoulou on Doukas and his clash with ministers

“Our Congress, as back then, must present a new type of party that can once again integrate and synthesize—through organized functioning—different viewpoints, diversity, and generations. The choice is one! Alongside the difficult, complex, and everyday problems of our country, we must offer the patriotic vision of the 21st century, one that can inspire Millennials, Generation Z, Generation Alpha—the generations that are not connected with memories but with dreams,” stressed Ms. Diamantopoulou, who, together with Lefteris Karchimakis, has assumed a key role in shaping the program that PASOK’s leadership will present at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF).