SYRIZA’s signature showdown: unveiling the ’87’ movement, Kasselakis’ response, family dynamics, and online trolls

The internal conflict within SYRIZA continues to escalate, involving MPs, party members, family members, and trolls. Supporters of SYRIZA’s president, Stefanos Kasselakis, are describing recent actions as a “coup.”

In response to the initiative by 7 MPs and 80 party officials who collectively outlined the internal party debate agenda, Kasselakis’ supporters began gathering signatures on a digital platform to show their support for him. This move comes as a reaction to the perceived challenges to his leadership.

Although Vice President of the Parliament Olga Gerovasili stated on Attica TV that the initiative is “not a letter of rupture” and noted that party bodies have not met in about six months, the “87” text has sparked strong reactions from Kasselakis’ supporters, who view it as an attempt to undermine his leadership.

Commenting on the collection of signatures supporting Kasselakis, Gerovasili said, “Those who do this are not true friends of Stefanos Kasselakis. He does not fear dialogue or feel threatened or questioned.” She added, “I think they’re underestimating the president and doing him no favors,” and highlighted the need for discussions on ethics and transparency amid allegations of “black funds.”

Former Minister Christos Spirtzis, who supported the “87” text, stressed that “no one is in the mood to challenge Mr. Kasselakis as president of SYRIZA,” and emphasized that neither SYRIZA nor PASOK can be the country’s alternative pole with their current results. Spirtzis added that the seven MPs who signed the text are committed to staying with SYRIZA, as losing five MPs would result in SYRIZA losing its position as the official opposition.

The Background

The “87” initiative was driven by Kasselakis’ manifesto from America, dismissals of executives, the closure of “Avgi,” and repeated references to “black funds.” Gerovasili emphasized the importance of renewal and progress but criticized the disrespect shown to long-serving members.

More Than “87”

The “87” text has broader support within SYRIZA, with many other executives agreeing with its content. However, some chose not to sign to protect those with professional ties to the party or who have been targeted by anonymous online attacks. The text includes signatures from members of the “Pappa Group,” early supporters of Kasselakis, and other prominent figures within the party.

Kasselakis’ Supporters Respond

Koumundourou sources reiterated that SYRIZA PS and Kasselakis welcome dialogue and respect all opinions. They questioned the timing of the public debate, noting that party bodies are scheduled to meet on July 4 and July 7.

Meanwhile, troll Pen Dalaura supported Kasselakis and launched a platform to collect signatures in his favor. As of yesterday at 10 pm, around 1,800 signatures had been collected, and the campaign continues.

Family Stories

Among the “87” signatories are Alexis Tsipras’ sister, Janet, and their cousin, George Tsipras. On the opposing side, Stefanos Kasselakis’ brother, Stelios, has taken a firm stance in the internal dispute, harshly criticizing SYRIZA PS executives.

Stelios Kasselakis responded to a post by lyricist Nikos Moraitis, an ardent supporter of the SYRIZA president, who accused the “87” of attempting a coup. Moraitis’ post stated:

“The ‘Congress coup’ has failed. Now we have the ‘coup of the 87’. Unfortunately, it turns out that Kasselakis was fighting alone in the European elections, with about a dozen people. The others were just waiting for a bad result to put their signature.”

Stelios Kasselakis defended his brother’s decisions, contrasting the intentions of Stefanos and the “87” group:

• Stefanos: “I want transparency and no interest in the survival of the party, so that I serve the interest of the base and not the few.”
• “87”: “We want interests, involvement, and black money. After all, this is what all the big parties are doing and therefore the right thing to do.”

The “87” text is co-signed by key figures loyal to former Prime Minister and SYRIZA PS President Alexis Tsipras, including Alekos Flambouraris, Olga Gerovasilis, Giorgos Vassiliadis, Christos Spirtzis, Katerina Notopoulou, Yannis Ragousis, and Thanasis Theocharopoulos. Janet and George Tsipras also signed the text, along with seven SYRIZA MPs whose signatures add significant weight:

• Olga Gerovasilis
• Christos Giannoulis
• Milto Zambara
• Dionysis Kalamatianou
• Andreas Panagiotopoulos
• Athena Linou
• Katerina Notopoulou

This specific number of signatories is strategic; if SYRIZA loses five MPs, it would lose its position as the official opposition, significantly limiting Stefanos Kasselakis’ political maneuvers.

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