Giannis Sgouros finds himself at the center of a political storm within PASOK, just ten days after announcing his candidacy. His recent statements on OPEN television regarding a potential post-election coalition with New Democracy have triggered fierce internal backlash, as they directly contradict the decisions of the party congress and the strategy of party leader Nikos Androulakis.
Sgouros: The statements that lit the fuse
During his interview on Open, the former governor of Attica and PASOK parliamentary candidate revealed that two distinct currents coexist within the movement: a centre-right and a centre-left one. He pointed out that a considerable number of party figures would view a convergence with New Democracy favorably, despite the party congress’s explicit decision ruling out any such scenario. When pressed by journalists on how such a decision could be reversed, the former regional governor dropped a political bombshell, suggesting that the party leader would not be making the decision alone. “If circumstances demand it, due to the economic situation or national issues, PASOK will hold an extraordinary congress to put the serious matters on the table. Everything will be decided by the election result,” he stated pointedly.
Backlash from PASOK headquarters
Within hours of Sgouros’ statements, sources from PASOK’s offices on Charilaou Trikoupi Street told parapolitika.gr that the party member’s views are strictly personal. They stressed that the congress decision remains in force, ruling out any possibility of a coalition with New Democracy.
The atmosphere surrounding Giannis Sgouros is described as particularly tense at party headquarters, as the remarks come at a critical time when PASOK is already facing significant pressure in the polls. The hostile climate was further confirmed through parapolitika.gr’s communication with a close associate of Nikos Androulakis, who expressed strong displeasure over the former Attica governor’s comments.
Risk of political exploitation
The PASOK leader’s close associate described Giannis Sgouros’ statements as unacceptable, emphasizing that they hand ammunition for political and media exploitation to both New Democracy and the remaining opposition parties. The concern centers on the fact that such remarks can undermine the party line and create confusion among voters.
This development is expected to dominate internal party discussions in the coming days, as discipline and unity remain critical factors ahead of the upcoming elections.
