SYRIZA pushes for broader progressive alliance ahead of elections

The SYRIZA‑Progressive Alliance central committee met amid low poll numbers for its leader, debating whether to run an independent list or join a wider progressive front. Party president Sokratis Famellos called the formation of the Greek Left Alliance (ELAS) a “major political event” and said SYRIZA should support it as an initiative, not a rival party.

Internal critics warned that a joint platform could dilute SYRIZA’s autonomy. Former minister Nikos Papapas sought clarification from ex‑prime minister Alexis Tsipras, while the meeting was further heated by an intervention from George Sianik and a hard‑line message from Polakis.

In a related statement, SYRIZA central committee member Giannis Boulekos said the party must exhaust all cooperation margins, inviting PASOK, New Left and Tsipras’ movement to a joint table and describing Tsipras as a “potential ally”. He emphasized that SYRIZA remains a “social and political necessity” for reshaping the progressive bloc.

Both discussions aim to shape SYRIZA’s strategy for the upcoming national elections and its role in any future left‑wing coalition.