ELAS shifts from online movement to conventional left-wing party with new structures and fundraising push

ELAS, originally operating solely online, is undergoing a swift transformation into a conventional left-wing party. The change includes a new fundraising campaign and the creation of coordination committees with appointed heads in all Greek regions. Recent milestones feature the launch of scientific panels by the Tsipras Institute, the announcement of the party’s name and programme at a large gathering, and the formation of a 400-member National Council along with sectoral leadership structures.

While opinion polls show ELAS hovering at roughly 16-17 % support and its members are increasingly appearing on media panels, the party still has no parliamentary group, a decision attributed to former Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. The absence of parliamentary representation could be a disadvantage in upcoming legislative battles, though ELAS hopes its grassroots organisation and the integration of former SYRIZA, New Left and PASOK figures will mitigate this gap.