PASOK navigates political shifts on the left amid dual right-wing offensive
PASOK is carefully navigating shifting political dynamics on its left, as SYRIZA and its splinter group, the New Left, hold their respective conferences, all while confronting a dual offensive from the right.
The socialists, who recently re-elected Nikos Androulakis as their leader, are watching to see who will lead the two factions following SYRIZA’s split triggered by Stefanos Kasselakis’ election as leader last year.
There is also significant interest in the extent of anticipated resignations from officials seeking to distance themselves from the main opposition. Of particular interest are those officials with parliamentary seats, as their potential alignment with PASOK could bolster its presence in Parliament.
Recent polling suggests PASOK is effectively acting as the main opposition, adding momentum to potential parliamentary gains. One scenario with major strategic implications for PASOK involves its formal designation as the official opposition in Parliament. This could occur if deepening divisions within SYRIZA lead to the resignation of five of its MPs, which would elevate PASOK’s 31 MPs to the position of the second-largest parliamentary group, relegating SYRIZA – at that point with 30 MPs – to third place.
Dual offensive
Simultaneously, PASOK faces a dual offensive from the political right. The ruling New Democracy party accuses PASOK of obstructive opposition by rejecting every measure, labeling it a “green SYRIZA.” Meanwhile, the nationalist Greek Solution party attacks PASOK from the opposite angle, claiming it consistently supports the conservatives by backing key government legislation.
Kathimerini
