One Woman Orchestra: Zoi Konstantopoulou’s Rise in Greek Politics

Zoi Konstantopoulou has emerged as the leading figure in Greece’s political landscape, capitalizing on the national tragedy of the Tempi train collision. Recent polls (Metron Analysis for Mega, Pulse for SKAI, Opinion Poll for Action 24, Alco for Alpha) highlight a surge in support for her party, Pleusi Eleftherias. Her public appearances and advocacy for the victims’ families have nearly tripled her party’s percentages within months. With elections approaching, Pleusi Eleftherias is poised to secure second place, surpassing PASOK, which continues to decline. Despite lacking formal structures or a governance program, Konstantopoulou’s momentum is self-driven, resonating particularly with younger voters aged 18-44. Meanwhile, New Democracy faces significant backlash over its handling of the Tempi disaster, while other parties struggle to offer viable alternatives. In parliamentary developments, Christos Triantopoulos’s case proceeds directly to the Judicial Council with only ND votes, amid complex party dynamics. Additionally, Archbishop Ieronymos has expressed support for Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, signaling potential Church-state collaboration on environmental issues.