Tensions Rise in PASOK Leadership Debate Ahead of Internal Elections

The televised discussion, broadcast from the state-run ERT studio, lasted three hours and featured sharp exchanges as candidates aimed to showcase their strengths while challenging their opponents.

Tensions escalated during a lively debate on Tuesday night among the six candidates competing for the leadership of PASOK.

The televised discussion, broadcast from the state-run ERT studio, lasted three hours and featured sharp exchanges as candidates aimed to showcase their strengths while challenging their opponents.

With the party’s internal elections scheduled for October 6, and a possible run-off on October 13, the candidates—including Nikos Androulakis, Pavlos Geroulanos, Nadia Giannakopoulou, Anna Diamantopoulou, Haris Doukas, and Michalis Katrinis—articulated their visions for PASOK’s future, though the atmosphere often became combative.

A particularly intense moment occurred when Haris Doukas criticised Androulakis for not activating key party mechanisms. Androulakis countered, saying, “You’re neither Mitterrand nor Erdoğan, and thank goodness for that,” while Doukas accused him of sidelining him after previous support for his mayoral bid in Athens. Other noteworthy exchanges included Geroulanos challenging Androulakis over economic policies, while Diamantopoulou and Doukas debated alliances and education reforms.

Giannakopoulou also pressed Androulakis on internal party dynamics, questioning his effectiveness in utilising party bodies. Despite the confrontational tone, none of the candidates made major missteps that could significantly harm their chances.

Androulakis, although well-prepared, showed visible irritation at Giannakopoulou’s attacks but managed to deliver strong responses. Doukas emphasised hope and change to rally left-wing supporters, despite engaging in several heated confrontations. Katrinis focused on national issues and consistently challenged Androulakis, signaling his determination to contest the current leadership.

While the debate revealed deep divisions within PASOK, it also garnered a positive response on social media for its overall civility. This has raised expectations for a strong voter turnout in the upcoming elections, as party members prepare to select the next leader of one of Greece’s oldest political parties.

The first round of voting is set for October 6, with a potential second round on October 13 if no candidate achieves a majority.