Alex Tsipras faces government criticism over new ELAS party and fiscal claims

Alex Tsipras gave his first televised interview after founding the Greek Left‑wing party Greek Left‑wing Cohesive Alliance (ELAS). He said the movement aims to be a governing left, not a protest force, and warned that the political system had lacked a strong opposition for three years.

Government spokesperson Paulos Marinakis responded sharply, accusing Tsipras of ignoring EU fiscal rules, suggesting he wants to roll back the tax‑cut programme announced on 1 January, and questioning how he would finance a claim that €6 billion is “available for distribution”. Marinakis reminded that the coalition has already implemented a €1.76 billion tax reform that includes universal cuts, a zero‑tax rate for young earners and extra relief for large families.

A Real Polls poll shows ELAS rising to second place, within a single‑digit gap from the ruling New Democracy party. ELAS is also finalising candidate lists across the country, positioning dozens of newcomers and local figures for the upcoming elections. The story reflects the emergence of a new political force and the ruling coalition’s challenge to its fiscal credibility.