Facing centrifugal forces, Maria Karystianou’s political movement Hope for Democracy is showing signs of internal turmoil — evoking comparisons more with established parties like PASOK and SYRIZA than with a newly founded political initiative.
New Departures from Crete
Following the earlier exits of Vasilis Kokotsakis and retired Air Force General Athanasios Papanikolaou, two more members have announced their withdrawal from the movement. According to Cretalive.gr, Achilleas Romboyiannakis from Moires and Angeliki Lenakaki from Tympaki are stepping away from the Crete Regional Citizens’ Organization of Hope for Democracy.
Criticism of Central Leadership
In their joint statement, the two departing members offered pointed criticism of the movement’s central operations. ‘Our participation in this effort began with a sole motivation: to serve society and uphold shared principles,’ they stated, adding that ‘the evolution of events and the way the movement functions at the central level no longer align with our personal values.’
They emphasized that civic engagement requires ‘honesty, transparency, and respect,’ and confirmed their alignment with Vasilis Kokotsakis’s decision to leave.
Mounting Internal Tensions
These latest departures add to a growing chain of public disengagements from Karystianou’s initiative — a movement still in its infancy, lacking full organizational structure and a detailed policy platform, yet already confronting open criticism over its governance and formation process.