SYRIZA Votes for New Leader: A Pivotal Moment Amid Challenges

SYRIZA members and supporters head to the polls on Sunday, Nov. 24, to elect a new leader following a two and a half-month period without a president after Stefanos Kasselakis’s departure. SYRIZA, Greece’s former main opposition party, is electing its second leader in just over a year, signaling a critical juncture for the party.

Voting is taking place at 465 polling stations nationwide, open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, with the possibility of an extension if deemed necessary by the Central Election Committee.

The Candidates and Voter Turnout

Apostolos Gletsos a TV actor, Pavlos Polakis a doctor and former minister, Sokrates Famellos an MP, and Nikolas Farantouris a MEP are all in the run for the party’s top position, each reflecting a distinct approach regarding variety of ideological and strategic priorities within the party.

The party’s base is called upon to select the candidate who possesses the necessary qualities to spearhead the party’s reorganization and much-needed reboot. The stakes are particularly high, as the party grapples with fears of marginalization in the political landscape.

A successful outcome could lay the groundwork for renewal, while a lackluster turnout might deepen concerns about the party’s future.

The 150,000 voters who participated in the open election processes of 2022 and 2023 are now a distant dream. If turnout reaches half that number (70,000–75,000), it will be celebrated as a success against the odds. Falling below 55,000 would be a concerning outcome.

As one older member from the party’s regional wing commented, “Whatever the turnout, I remain loyal to SYRIZA.” This remark underscores a growing sentiment that quality and commitment among voters may matter more than sheer numbers. However, the discussion about reverting to leadership selection via party congress is gaining traction.

Whether the left-wing’s central efforts to reorganize and connect with regional members have borne fruit, will ultimately be revealed by the election numbers.

Voter Eligibility

According to the Central Election Committee, anyone aged 15 and older is eligible to vote, provided they are already members of SYRIZA or register as members on election day. Registration can be completed on-site at the polling stations.

Both existing members and those who register on the day of voting can cast their vote at any polling station across Greece, even if they are outside their electoral district.

Source: tovima.com