“We do not want, and there must not be, a rival slate on Alexis Tsipras’s ELAS ticket in the elections,” said SYRIZA-PS President Socrates Famellos, speaking to ACTION 24.
He then explained, beginning with the decision of SYRIZA’s Central Committee: “Following the announcement of the founding of EL.A.S., we decided in the Central Committee that the new party is a positive initiative; we support it, we stand by it, and we do not view it as an adversary. With this tectonic shift brought about by EL.A.S., we are working to achieve broad convergence within the progressive camp to bring down the Mitsotakis regime. The majority of the Central Committee has decided, and the SYRIZA grassroots agree with this position. Either we respect it or we don’t. I believe in this proposal even though it is difficult, because that is what society is telling us: ‘Stand together to bring down the Mitsotakis regime.’”
Regarding MPs who might leave to join ELAS, he said: “The parliamentary group’s actions will be critical and must be strengthened in the coming period. I am far from considering the resignation of any MPs.”
Regarding what will happen with the state subsidy and SYRIZA’s assets, he said: “Any such discussion is misplaced when citizens are worried about how they will make ends meet.”
Regarding his relationship with Alexis Tsipras, he replied: “My relationship with Alexis Tsipras, both politically and personally, is very good to excellent. However, whatever we have to say about political issues must be said publicly. Alexis Tsipras has heard the Central Committee’s decision, and I am following his statements. I reject any suggestion of secret discussions or coordination with Alexis Tsipras.”
When asked whether he would run for parliament on a ticket led by Alexis Tsipras, he replied: “I do not engage in politics on a personal basis. I have fought to ensure unity within the progressive camp. I have made many personal sacrifices and will continue to do so in order to oust this government.”
When asked whether ELAS could win the election—and indeed on the first Sunday—against Kyriakos Mitsotakis, he replied: “I believe this initiative can serve as the basis for our response to Mr. Mitsotakis. Because no one can do it alone. The conditions in society are creating the circumstances for the Mitsotakis government to be ousted in the first round of voting.”
He also stated that elections must be held as soon as possible and that, until then, the party and its agenda will continue to exist.
Finally, he commented on the government’s initiative to tackle inflation through posokanei.gov.gr, saying: “A short while ago, Kyriakos Mitsotakis told us that he is saddened and angered by high prices. Now he is creating a tool to educate citizens about high prices. Why doesn’t he do something to lower product prices?”
SOURCE: APE