Amid growing speculation about a potential new political party led by former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras, New Democracy (ND) is mobilizing to shore up its support — particularly in his home region of Messenia. Though Samaras has not yet formally announced any political move, analysts warn that such a step could significantly complicate ND’s electoral prospects, especially its aim for a strong, self-sufficient mandate in the upcoming elections.
A Strategic Push Across the Peloponnese
A government delegation led by Konstantinos Kyranakis, ND’s newly appointed Secretary of the Party’s Central Committee, is set to visit Messenia next week — the symbolic stronghold and electoral base of Samaras. The trip aims to reinforce ND’s presence in the region. But Messenia is just one piece of a broader concern: the entire Peloponnese is seen as vulnerable.
Local ND branches have reportedly sent alarming signals to party leadership in Athens, warning of strong grassroots support for Samaras not only in Messenia but also in Achaea, Elis, and Arcadia. In response, ND ministers and senior party officials have already begun a coordinated regional outreach campaign.
Just yesterday, a delegation including Kyranakis visited Achaea and Elis. Today, it moves to Aetolia-Acarnania — where the recent departure of former MP Marios Salmas from ND has reshaped local dynamics. Next week, the team will travel to Arcadia, Argolis, and Corinthia.
These visits go beyond formal meetings with business associations, professional bodies, or local authorities. Officials are also holding open-door sessions with citizens to highlight the government’s record and address concerns — aiming to stem voter defections and strengthen internal cohesion within ND’s traditional base.
Concerns Over Samaras’ Electoral Pull
While Samaras does not yet appear in opinion polls — as he has not officially launched a party — analysts estimate he could draw significant support from ND’s conservative and right-leaning voters. Such a shift would undermine ND’s goal of securing a clear, decisive mandate at the ballot box.
Public Reassurances From the Top
Senior ND figures have responded publicly to Samaras’ criticisms — particularly his claim that the party has lost its ideological identity amid its centrist shift. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis told SKAI TV: “Whenever I hear talk about the ‘soul of the party,’ I think of the anonymous men and women who truly embody that soul — the everyday ND members who stand by their principles in both easy and difficult times. That is the soul of New Democracy.”
He added: “I believe what these people want most is a united party — with all of us inside it.”