Famellos: Our paths with Tsipras can and must converge
Opposition leader Sokratis Famellos of SYRIZA–Progressive Alliance expressed confidence that his party’s political path can and should converge with that of former prime minister Alexis Tsipras, despite recent developments within the left-wing political space.
Speaking in an interview with ANT1 TV on Thursday, Famellos dismissed claims that Tsipras’ recent political move was divisive. “I completely disagree with the view that Alexis Tsipras’ move was ‘divisive,’” he said.
“We are facing a critical development with the departure of Alexis Tsipras,” Famellos continued. “It was a matter of conscience, as Alexis himself told me. Beyond that, there is a question: what do we have in common? We have our shared path, our history, the SYRIZA government. We also share a common goal — to overturn the government’s policies and form a progressive government.”
He emphasized that while there may be “different perspectives and parallel paths,” they all lead toward the same objective. “These paths must converge. We will do everything we can to make them converge — and not only with Alexis Tsipras. I am talking about the convergence of all progressive forces,” Famellos said, adding that SYRIZA has already called for unity “through compromise, a progressive programme, and a joint ballot in the elections.”
“I am categorically opposed to the notion that Tsipras’ move constitutes a ‘split,’” he stressed.
Criticism of the Government
Turning his attention to the ruling administration, Famellos accused the government of fostering division and undermining trust in politics.
“I believe there is a plan by the system in power to undermine politics,” he said. “The system promotes the idea that all politicians are the same and only fight over positions.”
Famellos acknowledged that SYRIZA had experienced a “major credibility crisis” but said restoring trust has been a key priority since he assumed leadership. “I don’t have maximalist goals — I don’t claim that only SYRIZA can govern — that’s why I am seeking alliances,” he noted.
He also criticized the government for “scandals, a lack of credibility, and fueling toxicity,” describing the recent debate on “patriotism” as “ridiculous and dangerous.”
“It is a project of division and toxicity, a debate fueled by the government to distract from the fact that, due to the high cost of living, people are becoming poorer — while on the other side, there are billions in profits,” Famellos concluded.
