Tsipras in Cyprus: 'Momentum created' for challenge against Mitsotakis

Former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras chose Cyprus as the first stop for his international visits in his capacity as president of SYRIZA, presenting his vision for the reconstruction of the progressive political movement. During a discussion with Stefanos Stefanou of AKEL, Tsipras articulated his strategy for creating an alternative progressive force capable of challenging the current New Democracy government. Tsipras highlighted that his initiative aims to instill hope and optimism, countering the perception that Prime Minister Mitsotakis has faced no significant opposition. He stressed the importance of the left-wing movement not only offering an alternative but also possessing the genuine will to govern. "You cannot change things for the social groups you want to represent if you don't have the will to get your hands dirty to govern," he stated, criticizing factions that adopt a "complementary force" stance to the right or show no interest in governing. The former premier recalled the left's effectiveness during the memorandum period, crediting it with lifting hundreds of thousands out of poverty. He argued for the necessity of re-establishing the progressive bloc on modern and credible terms, aiming for a strong political force with a clear governmental perspective. "We want to bring a strong progressive bloc back to the forefront," he declared, asserting that the left should "want power, not fear it. For the benefit of the many." Looking ahead to the elections, Tsipras observed that the main opposition party often holds an advantage, recalling the 2012 election dynamics. He expressed confidence that "the momentum has already been created" and that the upcoming electoral contest "will not be a walk in the park for Mr. Mitsotakis." His goal is to secure votes, rally democratic citizens, and present a compelling alternative to the current government, framing his movement as driven by "romantics who believe that through politics they can change the lives of the people around them."

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Three years now Mr. Mitsotakis, at least the image that existed in opinion polls, is that he had no opponent.