Nikos Androulakis: PASOK’s Mission Is to Defeat New Democracy and Transform Greece

PASOK-Movement for Change has officially overtaken SYRIZA as Greece's main opposition party, following the defection of two SYRIZA MPs on Thursday.

Party leader Nikos Androulakis, speaking to Real FM, outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing that PASOK's priority is to challenge the ruling New Democracy (ND) party and bring about meaningful policy change for the Greek people.

"My great concern is for more and more Greeks to see hope in PASOK," Androulakis stated, reaffirming his commitment to presenting the party as a "reliable, serious" alternative marked by "political ethics and consistency." He expressed optimism that this development signals a new era for PASOK, with increased expectations and a renewed focus on grassroots engagement.

Androulakis stressed that PASOK's strategy goes beyond simply becoming the main opposition. "Our goal is no longer if and when we will become the main opposition, but how we can defeat New Democracy to change the central policy that multiplies the problems of the Greek people's daily lives," he declared.

Rejecting backroom political dealings, Androulakis invited open dialogue for collaboration on substantial social challenges, cautioning against power-brokering for ministerial or parliamentary positions. "There will be no haggling over power from me," he affirmed, instead emphasizing the need for transparent political processes and public engagement.

Androulakis made it clear that PASOK’s ultimate goal is to defeat New Democracy in the next elections to initiate systemic change. He envisions a governance model with a robust social safety net, fairer taxation, and strong institutions free from "arrogance." He described the ND government as entering a "difficult period" of political decline and positioned PASOK as the steady pillar needed for Greece's political future.

Criticising the 2025 draft budget, Androulakis argued that increased government revenues stemmed from high indirect taxation rather than genuine economic growth, exacerbating financial pressures on Greek households.

On Greek-Turkish Relations

Touching on foreign policy, Androulakis addressed Greece-Turkiye relations, dismissing government rhetoric about imminent breakthroughs. He expressed skepticism over Ankara's willingness to resolve the maritime zones dispute based on international law and The Hague’s framework, noting that Turkiye’s fundamental stance remains unchanged.

As PASOK steps into its new role as the main opposition, Androulakis aims to position the party as a unifying force capable of offering Greeks a clear and hopeful political alternative.

(Source: Amna)