Stamatis Gonidis defends welcome of Ilias Kasidiaris

Greek singer Stamatis Gonidis has addressed the controversy surrounding his public welcome of Ilias Kasidiaris at a nightclub. Kasidiaris, a former Golden Dawn MP convicted of leading a criminal organization, recently celebrated his release from Domokos prison at the venue where Gonidis was performing.

In an interview on the program ‘Political Stories’, Gonidis defended his actions, stating, “I am not a fascist, I am an artist.” He clarified that he does not regret his stance and would repeat his words if given the chance to turn back time. He emphasized that he loves everyone regardless of political affiliation, whether left or right.

Gonidis also addressed recent comments regarding the late Giorgos Mazonakis, explaining that his remarks were intended as humor. He noted that he is still struggling to process Mazonakis's death and that his previous comments were a way of coping with sadness through the shared humor they once enjoyed.