Nikos Pappas has launched a sharp critique of Sokratis Famellos over the handling of relations with former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and his new political initiative, the Greek Left Coalition (ELAS). In doing so, Pappas has reignited debate within SYRIZA over its electoral strategy ahead of the next general elections.
A Strategy ‘Voted Into a Vacuum’
The former parliamentary spokesperson argued that SYRIZA’s leadership failed to timely assess the evolving political landscape shaped by Tsipras’ departure and the formation of ELAS. He suggested that the party’s chosen course contributed directly to its current low standing in opinion polls — a situation he linked to the leadership’s dismissal of clear warning signs.
Pappas directed his criticism squarely at Famellos, asserting that SYRIZA’s approach toward Tsipras and ELAS proved flawed and must be revised before election day. He also rejected Tsipras’ claim that SYRIZA has entered a definitive historical closure, insisting instead that the party still holds substantial political, ideological, and personnel resources to play a leading role in the upcoming elections.
Call for Strategic Revision
Speaking on Monday, 29 June 2026, on OPEN TV, Pappas acknowledged that Tsipras’ recent public statement ‘clarifies certain things’. He stressed that SYRIZA now faces an urgent need to update its strategy — a task he said must take place during the Central Committee meeting scheduled for 11 July.
‘The strategy was voted into a vacuum,’ Pappas stated bluntly, assigning direct responsibility to SYRIZA’s leadership for ignoring existing political realities. ‘There were clear indicators — unfortunately, they weren’t evaluated,’ he added, naming the leadership as accountable when pressed on who bears responsibility.
Veiled Challenge to Famellos
When asked whether Famellos can remain at the helm of SYRIZA, Pappas stopped short of calling outright for his resignation but issued unmistakable signals. ‘It’s time for him to speak up himself,’ he said, emphasizing that what’s needed is ‘a solution capable of reversing the current image.’ He further warned that under the ‘present configuration of forces’, no meaningful recovery is possible — leaving open the possibility of major internal changes ahead of the Thessaloniki International Fair and the next elections.
No Solo Negotiations With Tsipras’ Project
Pappas placed particular emphasis on SYRIZA’s relationship with Tsipras and ELAS. Following Tsipras’ public statements, he said it has become clear that anyone wishing to join the new initiative must do so individually — not as part of a collective or institutional process.
‘Tsipras’ statement makes it clear: the only way to engage with his political project is to go alone and negotiate personally. I am not of that school,’ Pappas remarked. He added that such an approach is, in his view, ‘unthinkable’ — underscoring his belief in collective, principled political action over individual bargaining.