Maria Karystianou's Hope for Democracy party hit by 22 resignations

Twenty‑two former members of the newly founded Greek party Hope for Democracy, led by Maria Karystianou, issued a joint statement accusing the movement of centralised decision‑making, lack of transparency and undemocratic procedures. They stress that their departure is a “principle stance”, not driven by personal ambition or the lack of positions, quoting: “The resignation is not a lack of character. It is a right and, when needed, a stance of principle.”

Key figures among the leavers include Giannis Chatzistoyannis, former spokesperson Thanasis Avgerinos, Kateryna Moutsatsou, Maria Ioannidou and Takis Kotsorgios. Avgerinos posted sharp comments on social media, claiming the movement is dying and urging a quiet discussion of what went wrong. The party’s leadership has denied the accusations and criticised the media for focusing on a single member from Mesologgi.

The wave of resignations follows earlier departures and raises questions about the party’s internal governance, decision‑making processes and its future in Greek politics.