A new “storm” has been created in the turbulent path of SYRIZA in recent months due to the independence of the party’s deputy state yesterday, Evangelos Apostolakis. A storm that ”shaken” not only the new leadership of Koumoundourou, but also the former president, Alexis tsipras, who placed Admiral Apostolakis in third place on the SYRIZA State ballot in the 2023 national elections.
Mr. Apostolakis, while announcing his independence, referring to the recent inter-party developments of the conference and the exclusion of St. Kasselakis, talk about “co-ordinating democratic processes into practices that harken back to moments in the past we all want to forget». He also said that he cannot be in a party that operates in this way,expressing his gratitude that the majority of SYRIZA voters share his view. With this assessment, Mr. Apostolakis explains in substance and his reasoning for why he keeps his seat. “My decision to remain an autonomous MP and retain my seat is fully in line with my obligation to citizens and democracy“, he wrote.
If the departure of other MPs in the previous period was accompanied by sharp and critical announcements from Koumoundourou, the case of Apostolakis caused outrage. SYRIZA used in its official proclamation the phrase “shameful apostasy” and said, among other things, that “the Greek people (including mr. Apostolakis) will consign him to the basket of political history». According to data, his environment also responded to Apostolaki’s departure Alexis Tsipras. Indeed, sources close to the former prime minister wisely said: “he seems to have listened to the advice of others».
The chronicle
Admiral Apostolakis, since the announcement of the candidacy of stefanos Kasselakis in the summer of 2023, was one of the main collaborators of the former president of SYRIZA.
From the pre-election video of Mr. Kasselakis in Makronissos, where he was with him, to the internal party “trenches” of the frist split, and from a protective shield he ordered over mr. Kasselakis has characterized the pseudo-state in occupied Cyprus as a “state” until he “picked up” the post of the former president of SYRIZA to eliminate him military serviceMr. Apostolakis acted as “breakwater» for the leader of the newly formed Democracy Movement.
In the new summer crisis of SYRIZA after the European elections in June, Mr. Apostolakis limited his public appearances and interventions. Simultaneously occurring, his resignation Othona Iliopoulos from the position of State Deputy, he had re-opened the debate as to whether it was possible to enter St. Kasselakis in Parliament.
Mr. Apostolakis had announced it there that the president of the party must be represented in Parliamentbut the developments would not make such a version possible and thus he did not have to face the dilemma of his own resignation “for the sake” of Kasselakis.
Simultaneously occurring,the admiral was “present” – albeit formally – at the two events organized by the Alexis Tsipras Instituteas he “presented” at the “opening” of the St. Kasselakis in Tavros.
“The thousand sins”
The climax of the crisis involved the events inside and outside Gazi Live during the unusual SYRIZA conference given by Mr. Apostolaki in a public statement sent to Alexis Tsipras on November 18.
The admiral then said before making his final decisions that he was waiting to hear Alexis Tsipras first and that he did not intend to become part of the problem by getting involved in party discussions and disputes..
The “almost transfer” of Mr. Apostolakis joined the cabinet of the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis in 2021 as Minister of Civil Defense and the “carousel” that followed between the government and the official opposition was the first time the glass broke between him and Alexis Tsipras. Three years later, the break seems to be final.
How might internal dissent within SYRIZA affect voter perceptions ahead of the upcoming elections?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Expert Dr. Sofia Markou
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Markou. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent developments within SYRIZA following the surprising announcement of Evangelos Apostolakis’ independence. This has certainly sent shockwaves through the party. What are your initial thoughts on this notable event?
Dr.Sofia Markou: Thank you for having me. Indeed, Apostolakis’ departure marks a critical juncture for SYRIZA. It highlights underlying tensions within the party and raises questions about its leadership direction.Apostolakis was positioned as a significant figure,especially after being placed third on the party’s national ballot in the recent elections. His exit underscores a broader discontent that has been brewing within SYRIZA.
Time.news Editor: It seems like his announcement has rattled not just the new leadership under Koumoundourou but also the former president, Alexis tsipras. How do you interpret the implications of his departure for both the current leadership and Tsipras’ legacy?
Dr.Sofia markou: Apostolakis’ comments about “coordinating democratic processes into practices that harken back to moments in the past we all want to forget” are especially telling. This suggests that he believes the party is regressing to past mistakes rather than progressing. For Koumoundourou, this is a wake-up call. The new leadership is facing an uphill battle to unify a party that is already fragmented. As for Tsipras, his role in endorsing Apostolakis raises questions about his influence within the party and whether he has become somewhat disconnected from the current political climate.
Time.news Editor: Fascinating insights. With the party facing internal strife, do you think Apostolakis’ independence could catalyze further fractures or promote a necessary reevaluation of SYRIZA’s strategies moving forward?
Dr. Sofia Markou: It could certainly do both. On one hand, his departure might embolden other dissatisfied members to voice their concerns, perhaps leading to further fragmentation. On the other hand, it could serve as a catalyst for a crucial reevaluation of SYRIZA’s core message and electoral strategy. The party may need to address the criticisms raised by Apostolakis and others to reconnect with its base and broader electorate, particularly amid rising challenges from other political factions.
Time.news Editor: How do you think this turmoil within SYRIZA is perceived by the voters, especially in the context of upcoming elections or potential shifts in political alliances?
Dr.Sofia Markou: Voter perception is incredibly nuanced, but generally, political instability can breed skepticism. If SYRIZA is seen as incapable of managing internal dissent, it could alienate potential supporters. however, if they manage to demonstrate a commitment to internal democracy and reform, they might regain public trust. Additionally, with the emergence of new political forces, SYRIZA must be strategic in building alliances and presenting a cohesive agenda that resonates with citizens’ current concerns.
Time.news Editor: A tall order indeed. As we wrap up, what would you advise SYRIZA’s new leadership to focus on in the wake of this turmoil to stabilize the party?
Dr. Sofia Markou: First and foremost, transparency and open dialogue are crucial. They need to acknowledge the dissent within the party rather than ignore it. Secondly, leadership should prioritize grassroots engagement to re-establish a connection with the electorate. outlining a clear, forward-thinking vision that addresses contemporary issues while learning from past mistakes could help regain momentum.They have a delicate balancing act ahead of them.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Markou, for your insightful analysis on this pivotal moment for SYRIZA. It will be captivating to see how the party navigates these turbulent waters in the future.
Dr. sofia Markou: Thank you for having me.It will certainly be a fascinating process to watch unfold.