Evangelos Apostolakis announced his decision to become independent through his personal Facebook account.The former SYRIZA member of parliament, who is now there, opens fire against the party, while at the same time saying that he will keep his seat.
«It is my duty to continue working with ethics,clarity and commitment to the national interest,unaffected by minor partisan benefits.“, he says, among other things, in his declaration.
SYRIZA now has 27 MPs, after Yannis Sarakiotis left on the morning of Wednesday, November 28.
state MP Evangelos Apostolakis’ statement in detail:
“In 2023 I accepted the proposal of SY.RI.ZA. PS to be a candidate for the State Parliament, because I considered it to be a progressive party, which practically respected democratic traditions as well as the principles and values of the Progressive faction. What has happened recently has defied my expectations as democratic processes are subjected to practices that date back to moments in the past that we all would like to forget.
Having served the country in positions of high responsibility and knowing very well what “responsibility”, “conscience” and “honor” mean, I cannot be in a party that operates in this way. I am also sure that most of the people who voted for him share my views.
My decision to remain an independent Member of Parliament and to retain my seat is fully in line with my obligation to citizens and democracy. The institution of the Vice-State ensures the full portrayal of society and not the balance of small parties. Thus, it is indeed my duty to continue working with ethics, transparency and commitment to the national interest, which will not be affected by the suitability of small parties.”
How does Evangelos Apostolakis’s shift to independent politics reflect the current state of political discontent in Greece?
Interview with Evangelos Apostolakis: A Shift to Independent Politics
In this exclusive interview, the Time.news editor discusses the recent decision of Evangelos Apostolakis, former SYRIZA member of parliament, to become an independent MP. With a focus on party ethics and democratic values, Apostolakis sheds light on the implications of his departure from SYRIZA and the state of politics in Greece today.
Editor: Evangelos, thank you for joining us today. Many of our readers are intrigued by yoru recent announcement to leave SYRIZA and become an independent MP. What led you to this decision?
Apostolakis: Thank you for having me. My decision stemmed from increasing disillusionment with SYRIZA’s actions.Initially, I joined the party because I viewed it as a progressive force that respected democratic traditions. However,recent events have seriously challenged those principles. I believe the party has strayed from the values we once stood for.It is disheartening to witness practices that remind us of times we all wish to forget.
Editor: You mentioned in your statement about the need for ethics, clarity, and commitment to the national interest. Can you elaborate on how you define these principles in the context of your parliamentary responsibilities?
Apostolakis: Absolutely.Ethics is fundamental. It means making decisions that prioritize the well-being of our citizens over partisan gain. Clarity involves being transparent about intentions and actions; voters deserve to know where their representatives stand. Commitment to the national interest entails working to improve the lives of all citizens and not just catering to the interests of small factions within the party. I intend to uphold these principles diligently as an independent MP.
Editor: Your announcement also mentioned that you will retain your seat in parliament despite leaving SYRIZA. how do you envision your role moving forward?
Apostolakis: My role as an independent MP is to ensure that the voices of the citizens are accurately represented. The vice-state structure should reflect the full portrayal of society, not just a balance between small parties.I aim to continue advocating for policies that serve the public interest without the constraints of party politics. It is crucial to have a platform where I can address complex national issues without compromise.
editor: What do you think the implications of your departure might have for both SYRIZA and the broader political landscape in Greece?
Apostolakis: My departure could be a wake-up call for SYRIZA and its remaining members. They need to reassess their commitment to democratic values and progressive principles. As for the broader landscape, I hope my decision inspires other MPs to prioritize ethical governance and genuine representation. Greece deserves a political habitat where integrity and transparency are the norm,not the exception.
Editor: Lastly, what advice would you offer to citizens who feel disillusioned with current political parties but want to stay engaged in democracy?
Apostolakis: I encourage citizens to remain active in their engagement with politics. They should hold their representatives accountable and demand transparency and ethics in governance.It’s vital to participate in the democratic process, whether through voting, attending town halls, or supporting independent candidates.change begins with informed and active citizens who advocate for their rights and hold power to account.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Evangelos. Your experience and perspective on independent politics are invaluable as Greece navigates these challenges.
Apostolakis: Thank you for the chance to share my thoughts. I believe together we can foster a more ethical and transparent political environment.