Elpida gia ti Dimokratia faces crisis amid mass resignations

The political movement "Elpida gia ti Dimokratia," led by Maria Karystianou, is facing a severe internal crisis following a wave of high-profile resignations. Businessman Nikos Broutzakis, co-owner of Axion Esti TV, announced his departure, alleging that the movement has undergone an "internal mutation" characterized by arbitrary decision-making, the silencing of dissenting opinions, and the absence of a formal statute.

In addition to Broutzakis, a group of 22 members, including Thanasis Avgerinos and various professionals, signed a joint statement. They accused the leadership of becoming a "small, fearful, authoritarian party" rather than the broad citizens' movement it originally aimed to be. The former press office, led by Avgerinos, launched a sharp attack against Karystianou, Maria Gratsia, and Nikos Galanos, accusing them of personal attacks, misinformation, and controlling the communication sector through a tight-knit circle of advisors.

Departing members have criticized the lack of transparency and democratic processes, claiming that the movement's leadership refuses to engage in genuine dialogue and instead labels those leaving as "traitors" or "mercenaries." They have called for the publication of political council minutes to address these allegations of mismanagement and centralization of power.