The polls have opened for the internal party elections of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance, with the aim of electing a new president and it is a big bet to participate in the process.
After a turbulent period, where St. Kasselakis was announced ousted president of SYRIZA – PS and subsequently excluded from the electoral process, members and friends of the ruling party will elect a new former leader.
The presidential candidates of SYRIZA – PS are Apostolos Gletsos, Pavlos Polakis, Sokratis Famellos and Nikolas Farandouris. Voting in the 465 polling stations began at 08:00 and will end at 19:00. You can find polling stations all over the country here.
Tsipras is present at the process, where the presidential candidates will vote
Former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will be present as a new president is elected. He will vote at 12:00 at the 26th Primary School of Athens, on Fokionou Negri Street.
Apostolos Gletsos will vote in the SYRIZA member organization voting center – PS Pagratiou, at 11:30. Sokratis Famellos will vote at 10:30 in the party’s offices in Thermi, Thessaloniki. He will monitor the results at the SYRIZA – PS offices on Leonidou Street, Athens.
Pavlos Polakis will vote in Moschato at 11:30 at the Moschato-Tavros Cultural Center, at the junction of Solomos and Konstantinoupoleos streets. Nikolas Farandouris will exercise his right at 10:30 at the old town hall of Pallini, on Phidippidou street.
Put Svigo and Pappa in the ballot box
The secretary of SYRIZA – PS Rania Svigou issued yesterday a call for participation in the electoral process.
“On Sunday, the left and progressive citizens with their participation in the ballot box will respond to the plans to discredit and dissolve SYRIZA – PS”, said the secretary of the Central Committee.
For his part, the president of the SYRIZA-PS parliamentary group, Nikos Pappas, emphasized the following: “I vote, I participate, I decide. On Sunday we vote for SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance”.
“We vote and strengthen the voice of workers, small and medium-sized businesses and young people. We are voting for the modern Left, which is rallying people from the Left to the progressive center. We are voting and opening the perspective of progressive change”, says Mr. Pope.
Who has the right to vote?
It is noted that everyone from 15 years of age and older, who are members of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance, or who register as members even on the day of the elections, have the right to vote on the spot at the polling stations.
Those who are already members and those who register on voting day can vote in any polling station throughout Greece, even if they are outside their constituency.
Voters should carry an identity card or passport or driver’s license or health card. Citizens of other countries, such as the European Union or third countries or immigrants and those under the age of 17 must show a legal document showing their identity, as well as their AMKA.
Questions and answers about the internal elections of the SYRIZA party
The price of participation in the SYRIZA-PS elections was set at 3 euros. Read the full circular regarding participation in internal party elections here.
1. How do I vote for president?
Everyone from 15 years of age and older, who are members of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance, or who are registered as members of SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance, even on the day of the elections, Sunday 24 November, must be present at the polling stations, the right to vote.
2. When do I vote?
Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 08:00 to 19:00.
3. Where will I vote?
There are designated polling stations throughout the country. Those who are already members and those who register on voting day can vote in any polling station throughout Greece, even if they are outside their constituency.
4. What should I bring with me?
Police ID or passport or driving license or health card.
To participate in the electoral process, an electoral contribution of 3 euros is required.
Citizens of other countries, such as the European Union or third countries or immigrants and those under the age of 17 must show a legal document showing their identity, as well as their AMKA.
5. How do I vote from abroad?
For overseas residents, voting will be done electronically, from Saturday 23 November at 11:59 pm until 7:00 pm on Sunday 24 November. Members and those who register as members have the right to vote until Thursday, November 21 at 14:00 Greek time.
How will the outcome of SYRIZA’s leadership elections impact Greece’s political landscape?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Political Analyst Dr. Sofia Markou on SYRIZA’s Internal Elections
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Dr. Markou. Today marks a significant day for SYRIZA – Progressive Alliance as they hold internal elections for a new president after a tumultuous period. What do you think the stakes are for the party in this election?
Dr. Sofia Markou: Good morning! The stakes are incredibly high for SYRIZA in these elections. After the ousting of St. Kasselakis, there’s a cloud of uncertainty over the party’s future. This election isn’t just about selecting a new leader; it’s about restoring confidence within the party and showing a united front to the public. The choice of the new president will signal the direction SYRIZA intends to take moving forward, particularly in a challenging political landscape.
Time.news Editor: There are several candidates vying for this leadership role. Can you provide some insight into who they are and what they represent?
Dr. Sofia Markou: Absolutely. The candidates include Apostolos Gletsos, Pavlos Polakis, Sokratis Famellos, and Nikolas Farandouris. Each of them has a unique vision for the party’s future. Gletsos is known for his grassroots approach and emphasis on local issues. Polakis, a former deputy minister, has a more confrontational style, pushing for bold actions in support of workers. Famellos focuses on sustainable development and environmental issues, while Farandouris appeals to the younger generation with his progressive ideas. Their differing platforms could lead to a significant ideological shift depending on who emerges victorious.
Time.news Editor: It’s interesting that former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will be participating in the voting process today. What role do you think he will play in the elections?
Dr. Sofia Markou: Tsipras’s presence is significant. Not only is he a heavyweight in the party, but his endorsement could sway voters. Although he is no longer the leader, his legacy and influence still resonate within the party. Many members may look to him for guidance on which candidate aligns most closely with his vision for the future of SYRIZA. His actions today may also indicate how he plans to support the new leader, whether they accept his guidance or prefer to carve out their own path.
Time.news Editor: There has been a call for broad participation in the voting process, with leaders emphasizing the importance of showing strength against attempts to discredit SYRIZA. How crucial is this participation for the party right now?
Dr. Sofia Markou: It’s absolutely critical. Participation is a signal of support and solidarity among party members. Rania Svigou’s call to action emphasizes a crucial moment for the party – demonstrating that SYRIZA is alive and ready to engage with its constituents and dissenters alike. A high turnout could also reaffirm the party’s relevance and commitment to addressing the needs of leftist and progressive citizens in Greece, thus countering claims of dissolution or disarray.
Time.news Editor: Moving on to logistics, what does participation look like today? How can members ensure their voices are heard during this election process?
Dr. Sofia Markou: Members aged 15 and older, including new registrants, can vote at any polling station throughout Greece, which is very inclusive. Voters must bring a form of identification, and it’s encouraging to see that there’s a minimal cost of just 3 euros to participate. This accessibility is essential for encouraging wider involvement. It suggests that SYRIZA is trying to actively involve younger voters as well, which could be key to revitalizing their support base. It’s about making everyone feel they have a stake in the party’s future.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Markou. It’s clear these elections will be a defining moment for SYRIZA. We look forward to seeing how the results unfold and what they mean for the party’s direction.
Dr. Sofia Markou: Thank you for having me! I’m eager to see how this plays out; today’s election is a pivotal moment for SYRIZA and the left in Greece.