Evangelos Meimarakis submitted officially his candidacy for New Democracy leadership shortly after 18.30 on Thursday.

“I know the difficulties and negativism of Greek citizens, I hear suggestions that some suggest simply because they want people like them,” Mr. Meimarakis said adding that New Democracy must look now towards the future.

“I believe in building, not tearing down. I look on ND with great respect for its history and contribution and with my gaze turned onto the governance programme for the future,” he said.

Referring to his contribution in the party, he said “I was there, in bad and good moments, like this summer, I took on the burden, even though I knew about the difficulties”.

“Some are today ruling with SYRIZA. Others became apolitical because the party colours had faded. I have always served ND,” he said, stressing that he had no ambition to represent a part or section of the party but bring all the tendencies together.