Alexis Tsipras launches Greek left party EL.A.S. with anti‑corruption agenda

Former prime minister Alexis Tsipras announced the formation of the Greek Left Alliance (EL.A.S.) at its first National Council meeting in Athens. He framed the initiative as a “new ethics” movement to combat corruption and pledged a programme of immediate measures for citizens. The party outlined five direct interventions: free public transport in Athens and Thessaloniki, a 30% cut to electricity tariffs, wage increases for doctors, nurses and teachers, the abolition of nationwide university entrance exams, and the creation of a National Convergence Fund to manage “red loans” and align Greece’s economy with more advanced European economies. EL.A.S. will operate as a hybrid, digitally‑enabled organisation where members vote on key decisions and will not receive state funding or rely on large financial interests. Tsipras described the effort as a “new patriotism” and a “new political transformation” aimed at putting the collective good above personal interests.