PASOK Confirms Autonomous Path, Divergence on Coalition Strategy

PASOK's Political Council has solidified the party's commitment to an independent political trajectory, rejecting a potential coalition government with New Democracy. The decision, made during a critical juncture for the main opposition party, also affirmed the congress's mandate for autonomous action and opposition to governing with New Democracy, while leaving open the possibility of progressive coalitions if PASOK emerges as the leading party.

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PASOK will not play any supporting role in this staged political scene, not out of party patriotism but because we believe there must be political change.

Party leader Nikos Androulakis identified New Democracy as PASOK's primary political adversary. However, he expressed reservations about Alexis Tsipras, suggesting he is not the right figure to challenge the current government. Androulakis emphasized that PASOK would not play a secondary role in what he termed a "staged political scene," stressing the need for genuine political change. He criticized both the current government, citing deep-seated corruption, and past administrations for actions detrimental to the Greek people.

Androulakis also indirectly addressed recent discussions about potential collaborations, particularly those initiated by Athens Mayor Haris Doukas, who had raised the possibility of cooperating with Tsipras's party in a future election, even if PASOK ranked second or third. Androulakis asserted that PASOK seeks "political solutions, not political matchmaking," urging focus on the party's program, credibility, and political autonomy as key advantages against both New Democracy and Tsipras's party.

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Political change with those who never apologized for the games they played at the expense of the Greek people and those whose corruption has reached their core cannot exist.

Mayor Haris Doukas, however, reiterated his view on the necessity of forming a progressive government, irrespective of PASOK's electoral standing. He argued that 75% of voters desire political change and that supporting PASOK guarantees a catalyst for progressive governance. Doukas's persistent advocacy for this position, even in a relaxed tone, reportedly led some council members to feel he was isolated.

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The people of PASOK and society are looking for political solutions, not political matchmaking.

The Political Council's official statement echoed the majority sentiment, confirming the strategic goal of "political change" achievable only through PASOK's victory. It reiterated that New Democracy and its policies are the political opponents but affirmed PASOK's readiness to counter challenges from any quarter while defending its positions and history.

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We must fight for political change from any position. 75% demand it, knowing that by supporting PASOK, they guarantee we will be the catalyst for progressive governance.