[REVISION HISTORY]

Thessaloniki public assembly restrictions

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2026-10-29 11:05 UTC → 2026-10-29 22:06 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Tensions rose in Thessaloniki following a planned speech by Ilios Kasidiaris, a former member of the Golden Dawn organization, at a local hotel. To manage potential protests and counter-demonstrations by anti-fascist and leftist groups, authorities implemented restrictions on public gatherings in large parts of the city center. Police authorities issued a formal ban on outdoor gatherings between 09:00 and 21:00 in the city center and the Vardari area, citing a “serious risk to public safety.” On October 28, 2026, violent clashes erupted as anti-fascist protesters, including labor unions and activist groups, gathered at the Venizelos monument and attempted to march toward Egnatia Street despite the gathering ban. Security forces, including MAT riot police, used tear gas, flash-bang grenades, and chemical agents to respond to protesters attempting to bypass blockades. Clashes also occurred on Olimpou Street, where masked individuals reportedly threw stones and bottles at officers. The unrest coincided with the national anniversary of the ‘OXI’ against fascism. In the aftermath, political fallout intensified. On October 29, the PASOK party issued a joint statement demanding immediate answers from Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis regarding the police handling of the demonstration. While PASOK condemned violence committed by masked groups, representatives including Giorgos Moulkiotis emphasized that such actions should not serve as a “pretext for disproportionate police force against peaceful demonstrators.” The ~~party is currently questioning~~ Communist Party of Greece (KKE) also criticized the ~~operational decisions and~~ police intervention as an “unjustified attack.” Additionally, SYRIZA branches in Thessaloniki condemned the ~~necessity~~ police response, describing the intervention as an act of suppression that tarnishes the ~~force used during~~ memory of the ~~incident.~~ October 28 anniversary.

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