Maria Karystianou: 'We cannot cooperate with the old system,' says new party leader targeting Tsipras

Maria Karystianou, the founder of the new political party "Hope for Democracy," has presented the core tenets of her movement and her motivations for entering politics. In her first interview since establishing the party, Karystianou positioned it as a "grassroots social movement" that transcends traditional left-right political divides.

“

If justice had been served for Tempi, you wouldn't know me.

Karystianou was unequivocal in her stance on former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, labeling him "reheated food" and completely dismissing any possibility of collaboration. She emphasized that her party's focus is on "the human being" and that its origins are social rather than partisan. "We united because we have the same problems," she stated, aiming to differentiate "Hope for Democracy" from the conventional party system.

Regarding the party's finances, Karystianou revealed a specific budget, noting that the launch event in Olymbion cost 18,000 euros, a sum she personally covered. Her immediate priorities, should her party gain power, include justice, development, and national issues. Addressing the harassment of a research vessel near Kasos, she framed it as a "national duty," seeking to imbue the new party with a patriotic identity.

“

We united because we have the same problems.

On the issue of foreclosures, Karystianou mentioned a dedicated team developing proposals. She stressed the importance of transparency, ensuring borrowers understand why they are losing their homes. Concerning immigration, she described it as a serious issue, calling for greater European involvement and oversight of NGOs. "Our obligation is to protect the country's borders," she asserted, adding that her party would be "relentless against traffickers."

“

It is a national duty.

Responding to criticism about the party's political identity, Karystianou stated, "The system wants to label us." She recounted being called "the first far-right communist" and insisted the new party does not fit into old political spectrum categories. She characterized Tsipras's new party launch as "very glamorous" and image-focused, reiterating her inability to align with his party's positions. "We cannot cooperate with the old system," she concluded, asserting her desire to preserve the party's identity.

“

Our obligation is to protect the country's borders.