The Greek Court of Appeals unanimously acquitted 13 defendants, including former and current members of the 'Spartans' party, of charges related to deceiving voters.
In a significant ruling, the Three-Member Appeals Court found the 13 defendants, including 11 current and former MPs from the political party 'Spartans', not guilty of deceiving the electoral body. This decision came after the court accepted the prosecutor's recommendation for acquittal. Among those acquitted was Hlias Kasidiaris, previously convicted in a case associated with the criminal organization Golden Dawn, who faced charges of complicity in voter deception alongside a lawyer accused of aiding the MPs.
The case garnered attention after controversial statements made by Vasilis Stigas, the leader of the 'Spartans', suggested mafia-like practices within the party, hinting at covert leadership and manipulation of MPs by Kasidiaris. Stigas, initially a witness in this trial, later retracted his earlier claims, indicating that he had discussed the matter with individuals after further reflection on the implications of his statements.
This acquittal raises questions about electoral integrity in Greece and the influence of parties with controversial historical backgrounds, such as the 'Spartans' and their association with individuals linked to the defunct Golden Dawn party. As political tensions persist, the case's conclusion may impact public trust in the electoral process and how political parties in Greece operate moving forward.
