Internal Tensions Rise in Greece’s ELAS Over Spokesperson’s Style

By Antonis Telopoulos

Internal criticism is growing within Greece’s ELAS party over the communication strategy and public statements of its spokesperson, Theoni Koufonikolakou, as some members question whether the party’s media approach is helping or hindering its political goals.

The debate, which has also surfaced among journalists, focuses on coordination with

Some members have raised concerns about what they describe as an arrogant style in Ms. Koufonikolakou’s dealings with the media.

The controversy intensified after a July comment in which Ms. Koufonikolakou said an ELAS government would enforce an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited Greece.

The remark drew widespread media attention and criticism, shifting focus away from the party’s policy positions.

Her statements on a proposed “patriotic contribution” tax also sparked debate, with the New Left accusing ELAS of offering only a temporary redistribution measure.

Inconsistencies in her messaging about a possible future cooperation with PASOK have further fueled internal discussion.

Her media appearances have become less frequent in recent weeks. Between a July 27 interview on Open TV and an Aug. 27 appearance on Skai Radio, she had no other major public media engagements.

The communication issues are part of a broader internal debate over staffing. One faction argues that ELAS needs more experienced politicians, including former SYRIZA ministers, to prepare for governing.

Another warns that bringing in too many familiar faces could undermine the party’s renewal message and marginalize newer members.

Leader Alexis Tsipras now faces the challenge of balancing experience with renewal as ELAS seeks to position itself as a credible alternative to the governing New Democracy.

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By Antonis Telopoulos

Internal criticism is growing within Greece’s ELAS party over the communication strategy and public statements of its spokesperson, Theoni Koufonikolakou, as some members question whether the party’s media approach is helping or hindering its political goals.

The debate, which has also surfaced among journalists, focuses on coordination with the press office and the tone of interactions with reporters.

Some members have raised concerns about what they describe as an arrogant style in Ms. Koufonikolakou’s dealings with the media.

The controversy intensified after a July comment in which Ms. Koufonikolakou said an ELAS government would enforce an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visited Greece.

The remark drew widespread media attention and criticism, shifting focus away from the party’s policy positions.

Her statements on a proposed “patriotic contribution” tax also sparked debate, with the New Left accusing ELAS of offering only a temporary redistribution measure.

Inconsistencies in her messaging about a possible future cooperation with PASOK have further fueled internal discussion.

Her media appearances have become less frequent in recent weeks. Between a July 27 interview on Open TV and an Aug. 27 appearance on Skai Radio, she had no other major public media engagements.

The communication issues are part of a broader internal debate over staffing. One faction argues that ELAS needs more experienced politicians, including former SYRIZA ministers, to prepare for governing.

Another warns that bringing in too many familiar faces could undermine the party’s renewal message and marginalize newer members.

Leader Alexis Tsipras now faces the challenge of balancing experience with renewal as ELAS seeks to position itself as a credible alternative to the governing New Democracy.

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