Voter turnout could impact dynamics of center-left convergence
How many voters will turn out next Sunday to cast their ballots in PASOK’s leadership election? Similarly, how many will participate in SYRIZA’s internal election on November 24?
The turnout figures will carry significant weight in the ongoing discussion about unifying the country’s so-called progressive political space – a discussion that, for the moment, has taken a back seat as the leadership races within the parties take precedence. The individuals who emerge victorious will undoubtedly shape future political dynamics, and the path toward any form of convergence is far from straightforward. Moreover, such convergence is by no means guaranteed, as there are significant reservations on both sides regarding specific figures and procedures.
Voter turnout will be a critical factor in shaping the post-election dialogue. In the 2021 PASOK leadership election, 270,000 people participated in the first round. In last year’s SYRIZA elections, approximately 150,000 voters cast their ballots. PASOK is aiming to boost these numbers to demonstrate strong interest within its electoral base and, through high participation, affirm the party’s return to the forefront of the political landscape. In contrast, the situation at SYRIZA allows for no clear predictions – only wishful thinking.
Ultimately, turnout in each of the two elections will significantly influence the political landscape in the days that follow. A surge in voter participation in PASOK’s election, combined with the party’s rising poll numbers, could redefine the terms of any discussion about alignment or cooperation. If SYRIZA manages to maintain last year’s voter turnout in its internal election – a scenario that appears highly uncertain given the current situation – it could retain a strong presence in discussions about the future. Otherwise, the party’s nominal role as the official opposition, which is already under threat from potential splits, may not suffice to sustain a leading role in shaping political developments.
In short, voter turnout in PASOK’s and SYRIZA’s internal elections will be decisive in determining which party will take the lead in charting the future of the progressive political space, setting its own conditions, and which will struggle to remain a relevant participant in that conversation.
