PASOK parliamentary spokesperson Pavlos Gerolanos, speaking on Action 24 and the show “Behind the Lines”, made clear criticisms about the party’s direction, emphasizing the need for a change in strategy and personnel after a substantive congress. His statements come amid an internal party conflict that has erupted between the president, Nikos Androulakis, and party officials regarding low polling numbers.
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Gerolanos’ criticism and response to PASOK president
Pavlos Gerolanos, commenting on the polls, avoided responding substantively to Nikos Androulakis’ accusations that his statements create introversion, saying that they “all share the issue of timing“. He stated that no party official with opinions and concerns can remain silent. “This is not questioning the leader“, he emphasized, adding that political officials are judged by how they act and that their job is to go out and fight for the party.
“If we don’t proceed toward a substantive congress then we need to look at our strategy again“, he said characteristically. He emphasized that PASOK needs a substantive congress that will activate the base, so it can convince the large pool of undecided voters.
In this context, he raised the issue of renewal, saying that “after the congress, the organs and some people in the leadership team should change“. However, Gerolanos denied that the issue is only personal, emphasizing that a leadership team is needed that will convince people that their program can be implemented. Commenting on Anna Diamantopoulos’ statements, Pavlos Gerolanos noted that “people-friendly measures don’t mean they are populist“.
Gerolanos on Tsipras party: “It will draw publicity to itself – It will be difficult for us to present our program“
Mr. Gerolanos, referring to the possibility of a party by Alexis Tsipras, appeared certain that it will draw publicity to itself and noted that conditions would then be difficult for PASOK to present its program.
Harsh criticism of Turkey and Tempe
Regarding foreign policy, Mr. Gerolanos argued that Turkey “is doing its job“, but questioned when the Greek government will take initiatives. He spoke of a “very bad sign” that Europeans have lost their priorities regarding Turkey, which he characterized as a mediator. Finally, regarding the tragic accident at Tempe and the hunger strike by Panos Routsis’ father, he said he was impressed by how much the system delays requests such as exhumation.
