Political temperature rises in Greece ahead of elections amid polls and opposition attacks
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Political tensions rise in Greece ahead of elections, with polls showing a lead for New Democracy but not a majority.
- Prime Minister Mitsotakis focuses on the upcoming Thessaloniki International Fair, promising societal support against external economic pressures.
- Opposition parties, led by PASOK, criticize the government on issues like high ferry ticket prices and daily scandals, preparing for potential early elections.
Greece's political thermometer is rising as elections loom, with recent polls indicating a lead for the ruling New Democracy party but falling short of an outright majority. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is focusing on his upcoming appearance at the Thessaloniki International Fair. He pledged to support society against external economic challenges, stating, "Be sure that, to the extent of our economy's capabilities, we support and will continue to support society against every external trial, without arrogant promises, but with actions."
Meanwhile, opposition parties are intensifying their attacks. Nikos Androulakis of PASOK directly challenged the prime minister over high ferry ticket prices while presenting his party's proposals for Greek shipping and island support. The opposition is preparing for potential snap elections, possibly as early as autumn, despite government assurances that elections will be held at the end of the four-year term. They are capitalizing on what they term "daily scandals" emerging in the public eye.
According to a Marc poll, a nine-party parliament is anticipated, with New Democracy leading at 30.8%. However, the party remains far from securing an absolute majority. The main opposition SYRIZA follows at 16.8%, with PASOK in third place at 11%. Other parties like Greek Solution and Elpida for Democracy are polling at 7.5% and 7.4% respectively. The Communist Party of Greece (KKE) is at 6.7%, followed by Plevsi Eleftherias at 5.5%, Foni Logikis at 3.5%, and MeRA25 at 3.1%. The political climate is charged, with opposition parties launching a frontal assault on the government.
Be sure that, to the extent of our economy's capabilities, we support and will continue to support society against every external trial, without arrogant promises, but with actions.
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.