Parties on alert as former PM Tsipras signals political return

Former prime minister Alexis Tsipras is signaling a potential return to Greek politics, stoking uncertainty across the political spectrum as parties brace for shifting electoral dynamics.

Tsipras’ recent interventions, including an interview with France’s Le Monde, have given increasing “signals” of his return, though it remains unclear whether there’s a ready “political corridor” or if decisions will be postponed until next year.

His former party, SYRIZA, finds itself in a difficult position. While officials don’t view his interventions as confrontational, they acknowledge being in “the most awkward position.” Some believe Tsipras naturally defends his historical legacy and that of the party he led.

“Political formations transform over time. They are not dogmas, they are not churches,” SYRIZA sources told Kathimerini. Others argue that without Tsipras revealing his cards, SYRIZA cannot escape the 6-7% polling zone.

PASOK is discussing the timing of Tsipras’ planned September 5 appearance at The Economist conference in Thessaloniki, coming just before party leader Nikos Androulakis’ first appearance as main opposition leader at the Thessaloniki International Fair.

Government sources highlighted two key points from Tsipras’ Le Monde interview. First, his statement that he “misses politics and contact with people,” while serving as an active MP constitutes “an insult to the national Parliament.” Second, his claim that “the time has come to tell my truth” prompted officials to note that “there is only one truth,” referencing the “objective truth” that he led the country into a third unnecessary bailout.

One top government official said: “We’re waiting for him eagerly.” The government is preparing to challenge Tsipras on governance ethics, compiling a list of non-economic issues from his administration, including controversial criminal legislation and the Novartis bribery case.

Kathimerini