Greece’s PM reacts to resignation of SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras

·

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Alexis Tsipras’ decision to resign from the SYRIZA leadership was “expected” after his party’s crushing defeat in the recent elections.

Speaking with journalists as he arrived in Brussels on Thursday ahead of the European Council meeting, Mitsotakis said he hoped the opposition leader’s departure would improve the quality of political debate.

“I think the decision was to be expected… after three crushing defeats suffered by SYRIZA and himself personally,” Mitsotakis said.

“Syriza, both in government and in opposition, was a party characterised by toxicity, divisive rhetoric and with striking inefficiency.

“Political parties must unite citizens and propose realistic, cost-effective and workable solutions to people’s problems — a road SYRIZA has never taken. I sincerely hope it does now.”

Earlier on Thursday, Tsipras announced he was stepping down as SYRIZA leader to allow for a “deep renewal and re-establishment” of the party. 

“I understand the need for a new wave in SYRIZA. And I decided to step aside. I have confidence in the human capital of our party, in the inexhaustible forces of society and the Left,” Tsipras said in a televised statement.

Tsipras, who served as Greece’s prime minister from 2015 to 2019 during politically tumultuous years, is expected to stay on as leader until his successor is elected by the party membership this weekend.

His decision to resign came after Sunday’s general election where the left-wing SYRIZA party received just under 18% percent of the vote while the winning New Democracy party topped 40%. 

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Step into the world of mental health with Georgia Cassimatis’ latest book

Greek Australian author and journalist, Georgia Cassimatis, has released a book all about exploring the world of mental health.

GOCNSW Welfare Service to put a spotlight on cyber security awareness

The Greek Orthodox Community of NSW’s (GOCNSW) Welfare Service has organised three Cyber Security Awareness education and training workshops.

Marriage of a Greek woman abroad: What to watch out for

It is during this registration process that numerous problems arise, which are not dealt with immediately but later on.

Athena Competition Greek winners show olive oil diversity

By Lisa Radinovsky from Greek Liquid Gold. At the 10th anniversary edition of the ATHENA International Olive Oil Competition in Chania, Crete, Greece in May, 175 Greek olive oils...

Greece’s island communities face population crisis

The demographic decline in Greece is hitting its islands hard, with Lemnos and Agios Efstratios showing alarming signs of aging populations.

You May Also Like

Greek beaches rank second in the world, boasting up to 500 ‘Blue Flag’ beaches

Greece was ranked second out of 47 countries in the annual 'Blue Flag' awards, being awarded blue flags for 497 beaches, 14 marinas and 6 tourist boats.

Wildfires still ravaging Rhodes as others erupt on Corfu and Evia

Firefighters fought overnight to contain 82 wildfires across Greece, including on the islands of Rhodes and Corfu.

Greek government launches new summer programs for diaspora youth in Australia

Greece's General Secretariat for Hellenism Abroad and Public Diplomacy has new summer programs for Greek diaspora youth in Australia.