New Democracy Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Enthusiastic Street Party

08:02 5/10/2024 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

In a jubilant street party marking the 50th anniversary of New Democracy’s founding, the center-right political party celebrated its rich history and contributions to Greece’s political landscape.

The event kicked off with a commemorative video featuring party supporters reflecting on the party’s five-decade

journey.

The video highlighted New Democracy's core values, as expressed by its leaders over the years, with a central theme: "50 years of fighting for our country’s future."

The celebration reached its climax with a heartfelt address by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who stirred emotions by emphasizing the party’s long-standing role in shaping modern Greece.

"We were the party that kept Greece in Europe. In 2019, we liberated the country, putting an end to stagnation and falsehoods. This revitalization effort began in the summer of 2019 and continues today. I assure you, it will carry on for a long time," Mr. Mitsotakis said to a chorus of applause and chants from enthusiastic supporters.

The Prime Minister continued, reflecting on the party’s resilience and adaptability: "This party has given us so much. And today, on this day of celebration, we must give back by contributing to its ongoing journey. Just as it has achieved so much over the past five decades, let us reward it with something historic: three consecutive electoral victories."

Mr. Mitsotakis underscored the broad, inclusive nature of New Democracy, noting that while party members might not always agree on everything, the majority consistently aligns on critical national issues.

He paid tribute to the party's founder, Konstantinos Karamanlis, calling him a pragmatic leader and staunch anti-populist who prioritized merit over popularity.

"The late Konstantinos Karamanlis never sought to flatter public opinion. He always chose to collaborate with the most capable individuals," Mitsotakis said, also pointing out how the party's expansion in recent years has only strengthened its deep roots. "The wider we spread the branches of New Democracy, the more we affirm the strength of its foundations. This is the best response to those who want a narrow, closed-off, and ultimately defeatist party."

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Mitsotakis highlighted the party's victories under his leadership, including a particularly strong performance in the most recent elections. He also praised the decision to host the celebration at New Democracy’s historic headquarters on Rigillis Street, a symbolic location where many of the party's most pivotal moments took place.

"This historic building has witnessed both joyous and challenging times in the party’s history, yet New Democracy has never wavered. It has always transformed each experience into a new beginning, and that is why it remains the most enduring political force of the post-dictatorship era," he said.

Mr. Mitsotakis touched on Greece's current standing, proudly stating that the country now ranks among the leaders in economic growth within the European Union.

He outlined his vision for Greece in 2027, featuring a 3% growth rate, 2% inflation, 8% unemployment, and an average wage of €1,500.

As the event drew to a close, the Prime Minister paid homage to all of New Democracy's past leaders, present and absent. "Let us honor all our presidents today, because without them, we wouldn’t be here."

In a nod to the party’s history, Mr. Mitsotakis emphasized New Democracy’s commitment to national unity and its opposition to divisive populism.

He concluded by quoting Karamanlis, who once said, "I have never been right-wing, centrist, or left-wing. I have always been free from dogma, choosing whatever solution was best for my country."

Mr. Mitsotakis celebrated the legacy of Karamanlis as one of pragmatism and progress, noting that New Democracy’s ability to evolve has been key to its survival and growth over the past 50 years. As the party looks to the future,

Mr. Mitsotakis reaffirmed his commitment to broadening its appeal and maintaining its position at the heart of Greece’s political and social fabric.

The 50th anniversary celebration of New Democracy was not just a reflection on the past but a rallying cry for the future, with the Prime Minister setting his sights on further achievements for the party and the country.

Διαβάστε περισσότερα στο iefimerida.gr