Zeybek dismisses reports linking Western Thrace politicians to Tsipras party
Independent İskeçe MP Hüseyin Zeybek has rejected reports suggesting that he and other minority politicians from the region are set to become candidates for Alexis Tsipras’ political formation, describing the reports as “fictional scenarios.”
Independent İskeçe MP Hüseyin Zeybek has dismissed recent reports in the Athens-based press concerning the political future of minority politicians in the region and their alleged links to the political formation associated with former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.
Speaking exclusively to Thrakiki (Θ), Zeybek said that there is currently no finalized decision regarding his political candidacy, stressing that it is still too early to determine who will appear on future electoral lists.
Recent reports have named several minority figures, including former Mustafçova Mayor Cemil Kabza and former regional councillor Rıdvan Kurak, alongside Zeybek. According to the İskeçe MP, however, the reports do not reflect any finalized political agreements.
Zeybek: “Some are trying to create a climate”
Responding to reports about his possible political alignment, Zeybek said that different and sometimes contradictory accounts have circulated regarding which politicians may join Tsipras’ political camp.
He argued that some individuals, including former politicians, may be seeking publicity through such reports.
“Some are trying to create a climate and believe it themselves,” Zeybek said, adding that there is currently “nothing concrete” regarding candidacies.
He emphasized that discussions and political approaches are taking place, but said that none of the names mentioned in the reports should currently be considered confirmed candidates.
Zeybek expects SYRIZA to contest the next elections
Zeybek also expressed his belief that SYRIZA will remain a political entity and contest the next national elections.
According to the independent MP, a serious effort is underway to reorganize the party and strengthen the broader progressive political space. He said that SYRIZA could remain a significant political force and suggested that efforts are also being made to broaden the progressive political bloc.
Zeybek also criticized what he described as speculative reporting in both local and national media, saying that some reports are far removed from political reality.
Personal contacts with SYRIZA and Tsipras’ political circle
Asked about his current relations with SYRIZA members and figures associated with Tsipras, Zeibek said that maintaining personal relationships with former political colleagues is natural.
He recalled his years in Synaspismos and SYRIZA, emphasizing that he continues to maintain personal contacts with people from both SYRIZA and the political space associated with Tsipras.
Zeybek said he recently met SYRIZA politician Rena Dourou by chance at Parliament and also spoke with other MPs. He added that he had spoken with people close to Tsipras’ political circle.
However, he made clear that he has not had any contact with Alexis Tsipras himself.
“I have not closed the door to politics”
Zeybek stopped short of confirming whether he will seek re-election, stressing that the political landscape remains fluid.
He described himself as politically active and said he had not “closed the door” on politics. He added that he remains focused on issues affecting İskeçe and continues to work on problems faced by local residents.
The independent MP also argued that the progressive political space needs to become stronger and offer an alternative to the current government, criticizing the New Democracy administration of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis over the cost of living, healthcare, education and agriculture.
With the political season approaching its autumn phase, Zeybek said he believes September and October could prove decisive for the country's political developments.
