In a striking intervention underscoring deepening fractures within SYRIZA, MP Andreas Panagiotopoulos declared that his political trajectory — and that of the broader progressive camp — inevitably leads toward former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and the newly formed Greek Left Coalition (ELAS). He described this convergence as both an ‘inevitable path’ and a ‘societal demand’, speaking on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, on the radio show Parapolitika 90.1.
A ‘Natural Leader’ and a Unified Political Pole
Panagiotopoulos, SYRIZA MP for Achaea, placed Tsipras and ELAS at the heart of his remarks, arguing there is no viable alternative for the wider progressive movement. ‘This is an inevitable path — and now a societal demand — not only for Tsipras’s return, but also for the formation of a central, alternative power pole,’ he said.
He stressed that his stance is not a personal breakaway, but reflects formal decisions taken by SYRIZA’s party organs. ‘We align where the party organs have decided,’ he noted, adding that he has supported this direction for a long time.
Referring to Tsipras, Panagiotopoulos called him the ‘natural leader of the political alignment’. Responding to critics who find it paradoxical that SYRIZA MPs openly back Tsipras’s new initiative, he countered that Tsipras is far from an unknown figure: ‘You speak as if he’s just appeared out of nowhere. Don’t forget: in 2023, we were elected as MPs with Alexis Tsipras.’ For Panagiotopoulos, Tsipras’s enduring political weight makes him a logical reference point for both party cadres and voters.
One Electoral Ticket — Not Two
He framed the move toward ELAS as part of a broader effort to build a ‘large progressive space’ capable of challenging the current government as a credible alternative in power.
On the question of separate electoral lists, Panagiotopoulos was unequivocal: ‘It’s inconceivable that SYRIZA would run separately, and Tsipras and ELAS separately too.’ He dismissed any discussion of competing ballots, adding pointedly, ‘If that’s the case, then let’s get on with our work’ — signalling his belief that some form of pre-election political unification is unavoidable.
No Resignation from Parliament
At the same time, Panagiotopoulos ruled out stepping down from his parliamentary seat — despite his public backing for Tsipras and ELAS. He emphasized that his mandate stems directly from voters in Achaea, not from party appointment or personal privilege. ‘Tsipras didn’t appoint me — the people of Achaea elected me,’ he said, reaffirming his commitment to his constituents and the regional issues affecting them.