Greek political parties mark October 28 anniversary with tributes and calls for democracy, justice and national unity

Greek political parties marked the 86th anniversary of October 28, 1940, with messages honouring those who resisted fascist Italy, while using the national anniversary to highlight contemporary political challenges ranging from democratic accountability and social justice to national sovereignty and opposition to extremism.

The anniversary, known in Greece as Ohi Day (“No Day”), commemorates Greece’s rejection of the ultimatum delivered by Fascist Italy on October 28, 1940, which led to Italy’s invasion of Greece. Statements issued on October 28, 2026, reflected both the historical significance of the occasion and the parties’ differing political priorities.

New Democracy honours the heroes of 1940
The governing New Democracy party paid tribute to those who fought for Greece’s freedom with courage and self-sacrifice, extending anniversary wishes to Greek citizens.

Its message focused on commemorating the wartime generation and recognising its contribution to the country’s struggle for independence.

PASOK links Ohi Day to democratic responsibility
PASOK spokesperson Kostas Tsoukalas argued that the legacy of 1940 remains relevant to contemporary political and social challenges.

He described the Greek refusal to surrender as a demonstration of a people’s determination to defend freedom, national independence and dignity against overwhelming force.

Tsoukalas stressed that democracy, peace and freedom cannot be taken for granted, calling for effective institutions, respect for rights and social justice. He also linked patriotism to public responsibility and the pursuit of a stronger, fairer Greece with greater opportunities for all.

His statement called for opposition to far-right politics, fascism, racism and intolerance, while warning against democratic institutions being undermined and social inequalities deepening.

“The message of October 28 remains alive: no freedom without democracy, no progress without justice, and no national pride without responsibility,” was the central theme of his message.

Communist Party criticises government and international alliances
The Communist Party of Greece (KKE) issued one of the most extensive statements, placing the anniversary within its broader opposition to capitalism, NATO and the country’s participation in international military and geopolitical competition.

The party described Italy’s 1940 invasion as the beginning of Greece’s involvement in what it characterises as an imperialist war. It highlighted the role of communist-led resistance organisations, including the National Liberation Front (EAM), the United Panhellenic Organisation of Youth (EPON) and the Greek People's Liberation Army (ELAS), as well as the 200 communists executed at Kaisariani during the German occupation.

Turning to current affairs, the KKE criticised Greece’s alignment with the United States, the European Union and Israel, as well as plans involving the transportation of American liquefied natural gas through the region. It argued that geopolitical competition could increase energy insecurity and expose Greece and Türkiye to further tensions.

The party also rejected support for the government and NATO allies, criticised New Democracy and other political forces, and announced planned demonstrations and labour mobilisation, including education-sector rallies on October 30 and a general strike on November 25, 2026.

The KKE concluded by reaffirming its commitment to replacing capitalism with socialism and communism in Greece.

SYRIZA-PS stresses the continuing fight against fascism
SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance described the struggle against fascism and the principle that might makes right as an ongoing necessity and, above all, a responsibility of the people.

Its press office highlighted the National Resistance and the contributions of EAM, ELAS and EPON, presenting their legacy as an important lesson for younger generations.

The party also connected the anniversary to present-day economic and social concerns, calling on citizens to reject conditions that leave people facing deprivation and a lack of prospects.

Alexis Tsipras calls for freedom, democracy and social justice
Former prime minister Alexis Tsipras, writing as president of the political movement referenced in the report as EL.AS., said the anniversary should serve as a reminder to remember the past, honour those who fought and continue their struggle.

He argued that Ohi Day carries renewed relevance today, calling for opposition to fascism and the far right, social injustice, restrictions on freedom and democracy, corruption, and what he described as a superficial form of political stability.

Tsipras concluded by advocating a Greece founded on freedom, democracy and social justice.

Greek Solution calls for contemporary acts of defiance
Kyriakos Velopoulos, leader of the Greek Solution party, honoured the soldiers who fought in the Pindus Mountains during the Greco-Italian War, praising their sacrifices for freedom and their homeland.

His message invoked Greece, the 1940 epic and Orthodox Christianity, urging citizens to preserve the national flag and find the resolve to say their own contemporary “No” in response to present-day challenges.

Niki emphasises historical memory
The Niki party described October 28 as a day of honour and remembrance, stressing the importance of preserving historical memory and passing on to future generations the values for which previous generations sacrificed their lives.

Its message concluded that Greece’s history can unite and guide its people.

Course of Freedom recalls opposition to war and occupation
Zoe Konstantopoulou, leader of the Course of Freedom party, recalled that Greece said “No” 86 years ago and argued that the message remains relevant.

Her statement listed opposition to fascism, Nazism, war, subjugation, invasion, occupation and international crimes against peoples and peace.

Konstantopoulou also praised those defending humanity, dignity and freedom, adding that the Greek people deserved a better future.

A historic anniversary with contemporary political significance
The messages issued for the 86th anniversary of Ohi Day demonstrated how Greece’s wartime experience continues to shape political discourse. While parties across the political spectrum paid tribute to the resistance of 1940, they interpreted its legacy through different priorities, including national independence, democratic accountability, social equality, anti-fascism and opposition to contemporary geopolitical conflicts.

The anniversary remains a central date in Greece’s public life, combining remembrance of the country’s wartime resistance with competing visions of its political and social future.