SYRIZA's Biggest Mistake Was Not Cooperating with PASOK in 2015, Says Ex-Minister Pappas

Nikos Pappas, a former minister, candidly discussed the internal struggles and strategic missteps of the SYRIZA party in an interview with Giorgos Papachristos. He pinpointed the decision not to cooperate with PASOK in 2015 as the party's most significant error, attributing it to a lack of decisive action to overcome obstacles. Pappas emphasized the necessity for SYRIZA to pursue a coordinated path and advocated for a roundtable discussion among progressive forces to chart a course for the future.

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The biggest mistake was not cooperating with PASOK in 2015.

Pappas addressed his relationship with former leader Alexis Tsipras, clarifying that he supports unified party efforts rather than individual negotiations. He stated that any personal invitations would be referred to the current SYRIZA leadership. When questioned about current leader Sokratis Famellos's actions, Pappas expressed concern over the lack of communication with Tsipras, deeming it a "huge problem" and a fundamental obligation of the leadership.

The former minister also voiced concerns about SYRIZA's declining poll numbers, suggesting the party is underestimated. He argued that the party's current standing requires immediate clarification of the president's responsibilities, citing a "blurriness" around whether Famellos is fully exercising his duties. Pappas pushed back against Tsipras's recent self-portrayal as blameless, asserting that a leader cannot dismiss all their appointed ministers as "useless." He acknowledged Tsipras's acceptance of political responsibility for the TV licensing and special court issues.

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The absence of contact with the former president is a huge problem.

Reflecting on the past, Pappas admitted that the failure to collaborate with PASOK in 2015, opting instead for a partnership with Panos Kammenos, was a major mistake. He suggested that the party did not demonstrate sufficient determination to overcome the challenges that prevented such a coalition. The interview delved into the party's past, present, and future, touching upon Tsipras's reappearance and the political landscape following future elections.

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There is a blurriness around whether Mr. Famellos is fully exercising his duties in practice.