The main opposition socialist party PASOK emerged from its three-day congress Sunday having hardened its stance against any post-election cooperation with the ruling New Democracy party, reshaping the country’s political calculus.
Party leader Nikos Androulakis reaffirmed his dominance over the movement, which passed a resolution rejecting cooperation with New Democracy “in any role” following future elections.
The sweeping declaration effectively shelves scenarios that had circulated publicly – including a coalition under a mutually acceptable third-party prime minister, or cooperation following a leadership change at New Democracy.
The congress projected an image of unity, with no significant internal dissent surfacing during proceedings.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas, who had earlier raised objections to the anti-cooperation language, ultimately did not push the matter to a vote, instead securing a seat on the new central committee through a statute amendment.
Party insiders acknowledged that behind-the-scenes negotiations before the congress opened had largely resolved key disputes. Androulakis’ opening address on Friday, they said, effectively left internal rivals “without an agenda.”
The party’s standing in opinion polls remains a central concern. While the congress generated momentum, observers note that PASOK’s true test lies ahead – whether the gathering translates into measurable gains in forthcoming surveys.