Poll confirms Greece’s political system is in crisis

A new poll broadcast on Thursday evening (4 July) showed that an all-time high abstention rate in the recent EU elections was not a coincidence, as Greek citizens feel increasingly disappointed or indifferent about the Mediterranean country’s political system.

The poll published by Greek Mega TV showed that the 59.5% abstention from the EU elections was a political choice.

In the EU elections in 2019 and 2014, the abstention rate was 41.3% and 40.67% respectively.

According to the new poll, some 42% of the respondents said they abstained as a sign of protest against the political system, while 47% said they were indifferent to politics.

In addition, almost seven out of ten of those who responded assessed the centre-right New Democracy government (EPP) negatively, while the main opposition Syriza party (EU Left), eight out of ten.

An incident of former centre-right minister Lefteris Avgenakis attacking an airport worker – which led to his expulsion – added to citizens’ frustration with Greek politicians.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis remains the most “suitable” politician to lead the country, scoring 33%, but almost the same number of people voted for “no one”.

Regarding the estimation of votes, the ruling centre-right party keeps losing votes, but this cannot be capitalised by the opposition.

New Democracy scored 30.4%, followed by Syriza with 13.8% and socialist Pasok with 12.9%.

An ongoing debate is taking place in Athens among several progressive left-wing parties to join forces and overthrow conservatives from the power.

Read more: France inspires Greek progressives to join forces

However, who will lead a new united front remains unanswered as long-standing disputes among them remain.

Former Syriza leader and prime minister Alexis Tsipras has recently made his calls for a united front against conservatives more frequent.

(Sarantis Michalopoulos – Edited by Alice Taylor)

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