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Ilias Kasidiaris released from prison, announces new political party
Ilias Kasidiaris, a former leading figure of the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn party, was released from Domokos Prison on Tuesday after serving his sentence for directing a criminal organization. Upon his release, Kasidiaris announced his intention to return to politics by forming a new national party, reportedly named ‘Alliance of Greeks’ (Συμμαχία Ελλήνων).
His potential political comeback has sparked significant debate regarding legal eligibility. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis emphasized that the Supreme Court, rather than the government, will determine if Kasidiaris can run in upcoming elections. Current Greek legislation includes provisions to prevent individuals convicted of leading criminal organizations from exercising effective or formal leadership within a political party.
Legal experts and political figures have expressed varying views. While some suggest a legal formula might allow his participation, others note that the Supreme Court will scrutinize whether any new party or candidacy serves the democratic process. Political opponents, including representatives from PASOK-KINAL and New Democracy, have voiced strong opposition, stating that neo-Nazi ideologies have no place in Greek democracy.
Entities
Communist Party of Greece · Domokos Prison · Golden Dawn · Greece · Ilias Kasidiaris · New Democracy · PASOK-KINAL · Pavlos Marinakis · Supreme Court of Greece
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] PASOK-KINAL stated that the Supreme Court has ruled that those convicted of such crimes cannot lead a party, either formally or effectively. cretaone.gr · pelop.gr · www.thepressroom.gr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Greek Ministry of Justice stated that Kasidiaris remains under restricted surveillance.
- [● 13 SOURCES] Ilias Kasidiaris intends to return to politics by forming a new party. israelnoticias.com · www.metrosport.gr · www.mononews.gr · pelop.gr · cretaone.gr · +7 more
- [○ 1 SOURCE] New Democracy spokesperson Alexandra Sdoukou stated that neo-Nazis have no place in Greece. www.usay.gr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Three former Spartan MPs are reportedly in contact with Kasidiaris's new political project. www.metrosport.gr
- [● 22 SOURCES] Ilias Kasidiaris has been released from prison after serving his sentence. cretaone.gr · www.usay.gr · israelnoticias.com · www.metrosport.gr · www.mononews.gr · +15 more
- [● 7 SOURCES] The Supreme Court holds the authority to decide on the eligibility of political parties and leaders based on criminal convictions. dete.gr · makpress.mk · sinidisi.gr · www.tastv.gr · www.flash.gr · +2 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] The name of Kasidiaris's new party is reportedly ‘Alliance of Greeks’ (Συμμαχία Ελλήνων). sinidisi.gr · www.parapolitika.gr