The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has voiced its disapproval and concern over the recent release of Nikos Michaloliakos, the imprisoned leader and founder of Greece’s far-right Golden Dawn party. Michaloliakos was granted parole on May 3, just four years into his 13-and-a-half-year sentence.
In a statement, the GCM expressed regret that Michaloliakos had been released early, stressing that Golden Dawn had operated as a criminal organisation disguised as a political party.
The GCM stated, “We consistently support individuals and groups who uphold democratic principles and human rights, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or colour.”
The statement also highlighted the upcoming European elections as a reminder of Europe’s efforts to heal and unite following the trauma of Nazism.
The GCM firmly asserted that symbols like swastikas and chants praising Hitler have no place in society.
Furthermore, the GCM commended the Supreme Court’s decision, supported by the Greek government with bipartisan backing, to exclude the descendants of the Golden Dawn party from participating in the upcoming European elections.
Full Statement from the Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria:
“The Greek Community of Melbourne and Victoria adds its voice to those who have expressed disagreement and concern regarding the release of Nikolaos Michaloliakos from prison. Michaloliakos was convicted of founding the criminal organization ‘Golden Dawn.’ It is regrettable that he has been released after serving only four years of a 13-and-a-half-year sentence. Golden Dawn operated as a criminal organisation under the guise of a political party.
We consistently support individuals and groups who uphold democratic principles and human rights, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or colour.
The upcoming European elections serve as a reminder of Europe’s ongoing efforts to heal and unite following the trauma of Nazism and the global wounds it inflicted, particularly in our homeland. Symbols like swastikas and chants praising Hitler have no place in our society.
Additionally, we commend the Supreme Court’s decision, initiated by the Greek government with bipartisan support, to exclude the Golden Dawn party’s descendants from participating in the upcoming European elections.”
