SYRIZA’s future: Split or referendum Kasselakis’ next moves after Central Committee showdown

Time and support are running out for former president Stefanos Kasselakis, whose political maneuvering options are narrowing. After the rejection of his candidacy for the leadership of SYRIZA Progressive Alliance and the second consecutive political disapproval from the Central Committee members, Kasselakis attempted to re-enter the political scene by congratulating PASOK leader Nikos Androulakis on his re-election, emphasizing PASOK’s “perfect democratic process.”

Επικοινώνησα με τον Νίκο Ανδρουλάκη και του έδωσα θερμά συγχαρητήρια για τη μεγάλη νίκη του και την επανεκλογή του.
Συγχαρητήρια και στο ΠΑΣΟΚ συνολικά, για τις άψογες δημοκρατικές διαδικασίες.

— Stefanos Kasselakis – Στέφανος Κασσελάκης (@skasselakis) October 13, 2024

Kasselakis and his supporters, known as “Kasselistas,” are now faced with the challenge of deciding their next steps after his rejection from the leadership race. However, despite the tense atmosphere and disputes between the “Kasselistas” and the party’s majority during Saturday’s meeting, the Kasselakis faction is still considering its options, hindered by a lack of organizational structure and internal alliances.

While some of Kasselakis’ most fervent supporters are calling for an emergency party congress, it is highly unlikely that they can gather the necessary 15% (around 30,000 members) to demand it. Even if a congress is called, it would not happen before February, due to procedural rules and the holiday season.

Similarly, it seems improbable that Kasselakis can control the upcoming November 8 SYRIZA Congress, which is set to approve presidential candidacies. For Kasselakis to impose his will at the congress, he would need a majority, which seems difficult given the current power dynamics within the party.

Referendum or New Party?

Another option Kasselakis might consider is a party referendum to gauge his support base. However, this requires signatures from 15% of the party’s dues-paying members, another seemingly unreachable goal. If these options fail, the possibility of Kasselakis leaving SYRIZA to form a new independent parliamentary group has been discussed, with reports suggesting that only 9 out of 11 MPs who currently support him would follow.

Potential Successors: Dourou or Tzakri?

If Kasselakis steps aside, figures close to him, like MPs Rena Dourou or Theodora Tzakri, could step in as candidates. Dourou’s absence from recent internal conflicts makes her a less controversial choice, while Tzakri’s role in the recent Central Committee meeting has fueled speculation that she could be a strong contender.

Nikos Pappas’ Role

Meanwhile, Nikos Pappas, a leading SYRIZA MP, has taken a prominent role within the party. Pappas’ position, reinforced by his public appearances and leadership within the parliamentary group, contrasts with the internal struggles of Kasselakis, whose influence within the party seems to be waning.

In any case, the path forward for Kasselakis remains difficult and unclear, while SYRIZA prepares to move ahead with its plans for a more dynamic opposition.

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