Alexis Tsipras’ decision to open his political tour in Western Greece is a calculated strategic move — and Patras, in particular, signals the beginning of an inevitable showdown with PASOK as the pre-election period approaches. The timing of the event, as well as the location, carries clear political symbolism.

A First Test of Strength for the Centre-Left

The second public presentation of Tsipras’ new book Ithaki is shaping up to be the first “trial match” between the rival forces of the Greek centre-left.
Patras remains a city where PASOK preserved a solid base even through the years of the crisis and has recently been trying to rebuild broader influence in the region.

A new party led by Alexis Tsipras, however, immediately changes the political equation in Achaia and across Western Greece — setting the stage for a tough confrontation with PASOK during the campaign.

Why Patras Matters to Tsipras

For Tsipras, Patras represents the electorate that supported SYRIZA at its lowest point — in the double elections of 2023 and the European elections one year later.
Veteran local officials recall that SYRIZA outperformed its nationwide average in Western Greece both in the 2023 parliamentary elections and again in the 2024 European elections under Kasselakis.

• June 2023 (Achaia): SYRIZA 23.20% vs. PASOK 13.70%
• European elections 2024: SYRIZA fell to 18.45%, PASOK rose modestly to 14.45%

SYRIZA also maintained strong numbers in Aitoloakarnania and Ilia, although PASOK scored one symbolic win in Ilia in the European elections with 22.66% — re-electing Michalis Katrinis — while SYRIZA dropped to 16.04%.

A Duel Between Two Former Prime Ministers

The anticipated showdown gains additional political weight because it involves two former prime ministers with deep roots in the region: Alexis Tsipras and George Papandreou, who is elected in Achaia and remains a central figure for PASOK’s “Papandreou wing.”
Local officials expect a fierce battle with PASOK headquarters now that Tsipras has formally announced the creation of a new party. Within SYRIZA’s remaining structures in the region, the mood already appears to be shifting toward Tsipras’ new project.

Why Not Thessaloniki?

Tsipras’ choice of Patras — and not Thessaloniki — as the second stop of his book tour is anything but accidental.
In Western Greece, the climate is noticeably more favourable. In Northern Greece, by contrast, SYRIZA has shown clear signs of continuous erosion and declining cohesion in recent electoral cycles.

The venue selected for the event, the ROYAL overlooking the new port of Patras, can host around 1,200 people plus additional mezzanine seating — a deliberate choice to project momentum.

The Political Signal Behind the Date

Equally important is the timing: Tuesday, 16 December, the same day that party leaders will face off in parliament during the debate and vote on the state budget.
While Tsipras will of course address the content of Ithaki, the political “message” of the Patras event is twofold:

1. A clear opening toward the entire spectrum of centre-left voters — especially the Papandreou camp.
2. A fresh confrontation with the Mitsotakis government, signaling that Tsipras intends to re-enter the political battlefield with force.