ND anniversary party highlights divisions
The absence of former leaders Samaras and Karamanlis loomed large as PM emphasized party unity
Ruling New Democracy celebrated its 50th anniversary on Friday on a day that was supposed to symbolize unity but was marred by the conspicuous absence of two former prime ministers, Kostas Karamanlis and Antonis Samaras.
The gathering took place outside the party’s historic headquarters on Rigillis Street, where Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis addressed party members, striving to project an image of solidarity in the face of rising internal tensions.
Despite personal invitations from Mitsotakis, both Karamanlis and Samaras chose not to attend the festivities, a decision that has profound implications for the party’s cohesion. Their absence comes on the heels of recent public criticism aimed at the government, suggesting a deepening rift that has emerged over the last several months. What was intended to be a jubilant celebration instead illuminated the fractures within the conservative party, raising questions about its future direction.
In his speech, Mitsotakis sought to downplay the significance of the former leaders’ absence, stating, “I did my duty” in reaching out to them. He emphasized that the day belonged to the party’s grassroots supporters, rather than to its historical leaders. “This day is a celebration for the ordinary members of New Democracy,” he remarked, indicating a desire to shift the focus back to the party’s base.
The absence of not only Karamanlis and Samaras but also Evangelos Meimarakis, who was in Brussels, cast a cloud over the proceedings. Their coordinated announcements to skip the anniversary festivities signal a conscious choice that could signify a broader divide within the party. Observers noted that the distance between the current leadership and its predecessors appears to have widened, suggesting that the center-right party’s historical foundations may be at risk.
As Mitsotakis delivered his address, he invoked the founding principles of New Democracy, suggesting that the party must strive to broaden its appeal. He highlighted the need for inclusivity while cautioning against isolationism, stating that the party’s strength lies in its diversity.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the tensions among its leaders illustrate a critical moment for New Democracy. The absence of its former prime ministers raises significant concerns about internal unity and governance as the party looks toward the future. This complex dynamic poses important questions regarding the political landscape in Greece and how New Democracy will navigate the challenges ahead, potentially reshaping its identity in the years to come.
