Greece's ruling conservative party wins big as leftist parties suffer crushing defeat

By Ahmet Gencturk

ATHENS (AA) – Greece's conservative ruling New Democracy (ND) party won a big victory in Sunday's elections, while two major leftist parties, including the main opposition SYRIZA, suffered a severe defeat, which the local media described on Monday as Greeks' confidence in Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' policies.

The pro-government Kathimerini daily reported that the ND party’s landslide victory demonstrates the Greeks’ approval of the ruling party’s policies while hinting at SYRIZA's downfall after the final results and major turmoil within the party.

The daily also highlighted that the Greek Communist Party (KKE) increased its appeal, particularly in urban centers and working-class neighborhoods, while the ultra-conservative nationalist Victory and the left-wing Course of Freedom parties performed well surprisingly and secured 6th and 7th positions, respectively.

Another pro-government daily, To Vima, stated that the results are appalling for SYRIZA and its leader, Alexis Tsipras, who is in "shock," and that they are without a plan B following the strategic defeat.

The government’s generous social payments to citizens at a time when the main opposition could not present realistic plans played a role in the party’s defeat in general elections.

A major private broadcaster, SKAI TV, which is also pro-government, commented that Greek voters did not trust SYRIZA's pre-election promises, stressing that even traditionally social-democratic, left-leaning provinces shifted to the conservative ND party.

In its report, the Pro-SYRIZA daily Avgi, however, emphasized respect for the people's will, but warned that "the new situation that is taking shape is not positive for most of society."

"The battle is lost, but the fight never stops," it said, urging its readers to unite ahead of the second elections, which are expected to take place on June 25 or July 2.

With 99.68% of the votes counted early Monday, the New Democracy party won 40.79% – twice the main opposition SYRIZA’s 20.07%. Socialist PASOK came in third at 11.46%, followed by Greek Communist Party with 7.23%. Far-right, populist Greek Solution party became the 5th biggest party in the country with 4.45%.