Ilias Kasidiaris released from prison after serving sentence for role in Golden Dawn

Ilias Kasidiaris, a former leading figure of the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn party, was released from Domokos prison on September 15, 2026, after serving a 13-year sentence. His release, achieved after approximately seven years of actual detention combined with credits for prison labor, occurs just days before the 13th anniversary of the 2013 murder of anti-fascist musician Pavlos Fyssas, a crime tied to the organization. He was greeted by supporters outside the prison, where he declared his intention to return to the political frontline.

Despite his release, Kasidiaris faces significant legal barriers. Under current Greek legislation, he is barred from participating as a candidate in elections or leading a political party until October 2033 due to his conviction for directing a criminal organization. While his legal team, led by Vasso Pantazi, intends to challenge the final court ruling, the Minister of Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, stated that any future political participation would be subject to strict judicial scrutiny. Kasidiaris claims he plans to support a new national party, though legal experts maintain that the current legislative framework severely restricts his ability to hold leadership positions or appear on electoral lists.