Vasilis Kokotsakis resigned from “Hope for Democracy” led by Maria Karystianou, apologizing to the public and making pointed remarks about the direction of the party.
Vasilis Kokotsakis, technical advisor to the families of the victims of the tragedy in Tembi, announced his departure from the “Hope for Democracy” led by Maria Karystianou, while also expressing his regret over the course of the political initiative he had publicly supported.
Kokotsakis’s apology to the public, with pointed remarks about the movement’s trajectory
In a lengthy post, Kokotsakis addressed his friends, fellow candidates, and citizens who were influenced by his public support for the initiative, emphasizing that many had come to know it through his own statements and the relationship of trust that had developed during their shared struggle to seek the truth in the case of Tempi.
As he noted, when he supported the creation of the organization, he believed it was a genuine Citizens’ Movement, characterized by participation, collectivity, democracy, and transparency. However, after months of efforts, proposals, and interventions, he concluded that the initiative had taken a different course than the one he had envisioned.
For this reason, he publicly apologized, emphasizing that he feels he led citizens to believe in a vision that ultimately “did not turn out as we all had hoped.” He clarified, however, that there was no intention to mislead, but rather a misjudgment on his part.
Tempi and Justice – “My values haven’t changed”
Despite his departure from the political venture, Kokotsakis made it clear that he has no regrets—neither about the struggle nor the effort expended, nor about his conviction that citizens can bring about change.
As he noted, what is changing today is his political choice, not his values. He emphasized that he will continue to stand by the truth, justice, and the families of the victims of Tembi, offering the assistance of his technical team whenever needed.
Concluding his message, he thanked those who have placed their trust in him over the years and pledged to continue expressing his views publicly, even when it entails a personal cost, emphasizing that the trust of citizens is more valuable than any political position or expediency.
