Alexis Tsipras returned to office on Sunday night after Syriza won a clear victory in Greece’s second general election this year.

However, voter turnout fell to 55 per cent – the lowest since modern records began. More than 45 per cent of Greeks did not make it to the polls.

New Democracy leader and former defence minister Vangelis Meimarakis conceded defeat to Tsipras saying: “I congratulate him and urge him to create the government which is needed.”

Before casting his vote earlier, Meimarakis had called for voters to “banish the falsehoods and misery of the Syriza era, and bring in authentic people who could competently run the country.”

Greek voters- the ones that did vote- chose to give SYRIZA another chance rather than opting for New Democracy, a solid right party.

The new Greek government will have to pass new legislation yet again to boost the implementation of the the €86bn bail-out and to retain the confidence of creditors- which is likely to deter Tsipras’ voters.

Before the results had called for a mandate for a “strong fighting government that could last four years and help Greece force through the reforms required to put the country back on a path to prosperity.”

Warning of the “confrontations ahead” he warning of the stressed the new measures are “necessary in order to move forward with reforms”.

Results show the radical left party had won sufficient seats to form a coalition government in the coming days.

Greece’s centre-right Independent Greeks confirmed they would again team up with Tsipras, continuing their eight month coalition which is on course for a total of 155 seats.

Meanwhile Tsipras addressed Greeks before a victory rally in Klafomonos Square reassuring his voters that the country “is on firm ground”.

“In Europe today, Greece and the Greek people are synonymous with resistance and dignity, and this struggle will be continued together for another four years.”

“We have difficulties ahead (…) We won’t recover from the struggle by magic,but it can happen with hard work.”

Tsipras will be confirmed in office today with the formal announcement of his coalition to be made by Wednesday at the latest.

Sources: Kathimerini, The Guardian, Twitter