Alexis Tsipras unveils SME economic plan and election strategy

Alexis Tsipras, leader of the Greek Left Solidarity (ELAS), has launched a multi-faceted political and economic campaign ahead of national elections. During a presentation at the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tsipras unveiled a comprehensive rescue plan for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The proposal includes the creation of a National Convergence Fund with an estimated €12 billion investment capacity over four years, funded by public investments and a redirection of Golden Visa capital. Key economic measures proposed include reducing VAT to 6% on basic food items, cutting fuel taxes to EU minimums, and implementing a new debt settlement scheme with up to 120 installments.

Tsipras has also intensified his direct engagement with citizens, visiting rural areas like Ilia to discuss agricultural subsidies and the OPKEKEP scandal, and meeting with residents in Kypseli affected by metro construction. His political rhetoric focuses on challenging the New Democracy government, criticizing the rising cost of living, and arguing that Greece faces a decline in purchasing power and wages compared to 2019. He has called for the resignation of the Justice Minister and positioned ELAS as the primary progressive alternative to the current administration, aiming to secure a leading position in upcoming elections.