Maria Karystianou, founder of the political movement Elpida gia ti Dimokratia (Hope for Democracy), has categorically denied allegations of Russian influence over her party. Speaking to SKAI TV, she clarified that the rent for the party’s Athens office is paid entirely out of her own pocket — a detail she emphasized to underscore the movement’s independence and lack of external financial backing.
No Donors, No External Funding
Karystianou stressed that the movement does not rely on corporate sponsors or institutional donors. “We are not professional politicians,” she said, explaining that while this means they lack the infrastructure and experience of established parties, it also ensures their autonomy. “There are no sponsors bringing companies in to organize everything for us,” she added.
Public Support Remains Strong
Addressing recent polling figures, Karystianou questioned the reliability of opinion surveys in capturing genuine public sentiment. “Do polls truly reflect what society feels? Have I taken decisions against the people that would cause my numbers to drop? That makes no sense,” she said. She attributed early public support not solely to personal tragedy — the loss of her son — but to her longstanding role alongside others in a broader struggle for justice, a cause she described as deeply resonant with Greek citizens.
“The public’s affection hasn’t diminished in value,” she continued. “What we’re trying to do hasn’t lost its significance — it’s simply expanded across all sectors of society.” She noted a steady influx of new members and a high volume of applications from professionals eager to contribute to what she called “the first initiative of its kind in Greece.”
A New Kind of Political Movement
Karystianou positioned Elpida gia ti Dimokratia as a grassroots alternative to traditional parties. “We’re tired of hearing excuses — that VAT can’t be lowered because Europe won’t allow it; that unfair taxation is inevitable; that cartels must dominate our economy,” she said. “All these things can change starting the next day. That’s our difference.”
The party’s founding manifesto outlines its core positions, and Karystianou confirmed that a full policy program — including detailed analysis and implementation plans — will be published by the end of August. “Whatever we promise, we will deliver,” she affirmed.
Critique of the Political Establishment
When asked about fellow politician Zoe Konstantopoulou, Karystianou described her as a long-standing figure within the system Elpida gia ti Dimokratia seeks to challenge. “Whether in government or opposition, mistakes happen,” she said. “What’s clear is that Parliament is not functioning in the interest of citizens — it’s not serving them. That’s why we stepped out.”
She concluded by reiterating that accusations of foreign interference are baseless. “It’s absurd,” she said. “We are part of society — ordinary people trying to confront a system that holds power, money, and connections.”