Kostis Efstathiou decides not to seek EDEK leadership

Former EDEK Member of Parliament Kostis Efstathiou officially announced on November 9, 2026, that he will not run for the party's leadership nor seek any other internal political position. This statement, delivered during an appearance on the RIK radio program 'Proino Dromologio', brings an end to ongoing speculation following his recent series of meetings with party members and local officials across various provinces.

Efstathiou explicitly stated that the party does not require internal elections at this time. He emphasized that EDEK's current priorities involve fostering unity, collectivity, and developing a shared strategy rather than engaging in leadership contests against the current president, Sofia Christodoulou-Makri. He believes that internal friction would not assist the party in its efforts to reorganize and regain parliamentary representation.

While his decision marks his withdrawal from active party roles, it is expected to disappoint supporters who believed his experience would be vital for the party's reconstruction. Efstathiou noted that he intends to release a written statement soon to further clarify the reasons behind his decision to step back from party activity.