Androulakis in “Battle Mode” over Unknown Soldier – PASOK Rejects Government Amendment

The confrontation between the government and PASOK regarding the amendment on the Unknown Soldier Monument has escalated into an open political dispute. After a tense video conference of the party’s coordinating body, PASOK’s parliamentary group decided to vote against the amendment, viewing it as an artificial dilemma and a tool of political polarization by the government.

During the session, many MPs expressed concerns about the content and intent of the amendment, while several highlighted serious constitutional reservations regarding restrictions on gatherings around the Monument.

PASOK: “Government is weaponizing national symbols”

PASOK’s stance was reinforced by party spokesperson Kostas Tsoukalas, who sharply criticized government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis, accusing him of pursuing a “path of division and toxicity.”

“It has reached the height of irresponsibility to exploit national matters to attack PASOK,” Tsoukalas said, adding that the government seeks to divide the Greek people over the Monument to settle internal ministerial disputes.

The statement reflects the offensive spirit within PASOK, which aims to distinguish its position from what it calls the government’s “political theatre for internal consumption.”

Constitutional challenge and Androulakis’ strategy

PASOK’s opposition goes beyond rhetoric. On Tuesday morning, it submitted an official constitutional challenge, arguing that the amendment violates fundamental rights to assembly and freedom of expression.

Meanwhile, party leader Nikos Androulakis is preparing for a high-stakes parliamentary intervention, targeting not only the amendment but also the government’s broader approach to institutions, rights, and social cohesion.

According to party sources, Androulakis aims to highlight PASOK’s role as a force of institutional responsibility and political realism, contrasting it with what he describes as the government’s rhetoric of division.

Political message and implications

The dispute over the Unknown Soldier Monument carries symbolic weight beyond the amendment itself. For PASOK, it is an opportunity to showcase a distinct political profile, while for the government, it serves as a test of cohesion following internal tensions.

With eyes on today’s plenary session, all signs point to Androulakis stepping up the pace, positioning PASOK at the center of developments—this time, with a focus on defending institutions and democratic balance.