Stefanos Kasselakis, former leader of SYRIZA and current president of the Movement for Democracy party, is scheduled to stand trial at the Single-Member Misdemeanor Court of Athens on May 8.
He faces charges related to bribery, asset declarations, and involvement with foreign companies following an investigation sparked by allegations from local media and his former party, SYRIZA.
The accusations centre on Kasselakis’ ties to U.S.-based companies, one of which allegedly provided funding to SYRIZA. Prosecutors claim that his involvement in these foreign businesses violates Greek laws prohibiting political leaders from managing or owning companies abroad. Kasselakis has denied any wrongdoing, asserting he was unaware of the legal restrictions.
The case involves provisions from Greek laws (Law 3213/2003 and Law 5026/2023) prohibiting politicians, ministers, and party leaders from participating in foreign companies. Despite Kasselakis’ explanations during the investigation, criminal proceedings were initiated due to an alleged breach of these laws.
The case follows months of speculation regarding Kasselakis’ financial dealings and internal conflict within SYRIZA. In November, an article in Efimerida ton Syntakton raised concerns over gaps in his wealth declaration. Kasselakis responded by accusing the SYRIZA leadership of leaking his financial details to the press. As a result, the party barred him from running and expelled him.
SYRIZA had previously stated intentions to file an appeal in November, urging an investigation into Kasselakis’ potential involvement with offshore companies. Thymios Georgopoulos, SYRIZA’s former financial director, indicated that further revelations about Kasselakis’ financial and legal connections would emerge, with additional involvement from financial prosecutors expected.
Kasselakis has vowed to take legal action against those he claims distorted his wealth declaration, insisting that he has never earned money illegally.