Selanik protests erupt over police response to anti-fascist demonstrators at Kasidiaris event
Greek police used tear gas and stun grenades against anti-fascist demonstrators in Selanik on Wednesday, while six central metro stations were temporarily closed amid security measures surrounding an event featuring former Golden Dawn member Ilias Kasidiaris, according to Greek newspaper Efimerida ton Syntakton (Efsyn).
The newspaper reported that demonstrators gathered near the Venizelos statue before attempting to march towards the Capsis Hotel, where Kasidiaris was due to speak. Police forces deployed batons, tear gas and stun grenades as tensions escalated in the city centre. Six people were reportedly taken in for questioning.
METRO CLOSURES AND PUBLIC ASSEMBLY BAN
Authorities imposed a ban on outdoor public gatherings in central Selanik from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on October 28, citing potential threats to public safety, according to Efsyn.
Six metro stations — New Railway Station, Dimokratias, Venizelou, Agias Sofias, Sintrivani and Panepistimio — were closed from around 11 a.m. until approximately 6:30 p.m. The restrictions disrupted transport through the city centre during the demonstrations.
Efsyn criticised the measures, arguing that they effectively facilitated the event while restricting opposition to it. These characterisations reflect the newspaper's editorial position.
POLITICAL PARTIES CONDEMN POLICE ACTION
The Communist Party of Greece (KKE) said its parliamentary representative, Thanasis Pafilis, intervened with Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis to demand the immediate release of those taken in for questioning.
SYRIZA, New Left's youth organisation in Thessaloniki and Popular Unity also criticised the authorities' handling of the protests. Their statements accused the government of restricting anti-fascist demonstrations while allowing Kasidiaris to address supporters.
The Thessaloniki Labour Centre likewise called for a public response against the resurgence of far-right politics.
KASIDIARIS AND THE GOLDEN DAWN CASE
Kasidiaris, a former leading figure in the far-right Golden Dawn party, was convicted in connection with the leadership of a criminal organisation in the landmark trial of the party's leadership. His political activities remain a source of controversy in Greece.
The events took place on October 28, Greece's national anniversary commemorating the country's rejection of an Italian ultimatum in 1940. The date carries particular historical significance in debates over fascism, resistance and democratic memory.
The police measures, metro closures and clashes have intensified political criticism of the government's approach to public demonstrations. The account above is based on Efsyn's reporting; the allegations concerning the conduct and motives of the authorities have not been independently verified here.
