PASOK hit by internal clashes ahead of party congress as divisions deepen

Sharp exchanges reportedly dominated the party’s latest Political Bureau meeting, highlighting widening rifts over leadership strategy, alliances, and internal democracy.

Androulakis Pushes for “Offensive Expansion”

PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis stressed that the party aims to hold an open and institutional congress, promoting a strategy of what he described as “offensive expansion.” This approach includes outreach to other political forces, formal invitations, and dialogue initiatives.

Androulakis underlined that PASOK’s goal remains an electoral victory and the formation of a progressive government under PASOK’s leadership. He criticized inward-looking tendencies within the party, arguing that expansion should take place without compromising PASOK’s political autonomy.

Strategy Faces Internal Resistance

However, Androulakis’ strategy failed to gain unanimous support. Athens Mayor Haris Doukas openly challenged the current leadership line, claiming it has not delivered results and warning that PASOK is moving further away from its objective of becoming the leading political force.

Doukas outlined four key demands ahead of the congress:

• A clear rejection of any coalition with New Democracy
• Opening dialogue with other progressive forces
• Holding primary elections to select parliamentary candidates
• Requiring MPs seeking to join PASOK to resign from their current seats

According to reporting by EfSyn, heated verbal confrontations took place between Androulakis and Doukas, particularly over coalition scenarios and the issue of primaries. Androulakis reportedly responded by emphasizing unity and warning against strategies that could undermine the party’s broader goals.

Diamantopoulou–Doukas Confrontation

Former Culture Minister Anna Diamantopoulou highlighted the strategic importance of the congress and stressed the need for PASOK to be fully prepared for upcoming elections. She revived the proposal for a “shadow government” and called for clearer political priorities, particularly in the Athens region.

Tensions escalated further when Diamantopoulou and Doukas clashed verbally over the alleged leak of Doukas’ speaking notes to the press.

Geroulanos Raises Concerns

Former PASOK leader Pavlos Geroulanos also voiced concerns ahead of the congress, arguing that the party lacks a clear and coherent plan. He called for more frequent meetings of PASOK’s central bodies to ensure strategic clarity and internal cohesion.

A Party at a Crossroads

As PASOK heads toward a critical congress, internal divisions over leadership, strategy, and alliances threaten to complicate its efforts to reposition itself as a leading force in Greek politics. The outcome of the congress is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the party’s future direction and electoral prospects.