Greek election: Samaras makes final plea to voters, as polls show Syriza lead

Greek election: Samaras makes final plea to voters, as polls show Syriza lead
By Euronews
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Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has addressed party supporters for the final time ahead of tomorrow’s elections. Thousands attended the New

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Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has addressed party supporters for the final time ahead of tomorrow’s elections.

Thousands attended the New Democracy rally in Athens, as opinion polls showed the left-wing Syriza party had increased its lead over the governing conservatives.

“Even one vote can determine whether Greece will move towards the future, which is now very close to us – or we will head for a fatal accident,” said Samaras.

“To all those who will determine the final result, today I call on you to fight, to unite with us.”

Samaras, whose party has governed in a coalition since May 2012, has promised tax relief – saying growth and investment will gradually cut unemployment.

Speaking from Athens, euronews correspondent Akis Tatsis said: “Atonis Samaras has used this last New Democracy rally to present the work of his government. He strongly criticised Syriza and expressed confidence that his party will win the election.”

Syriza has promised to challenge bailout agreements, to press for better repayment terms and massive debt forgiveness. But the conservatives say that could deal a fatal blow to the country’s fragile recovery.

“We will honour the commitments that derive from the participation of the country, the equal participation of the country in the European institutional framework,” said Alexis Tsipras, Syriza leader.

“We will not honour commitments and signatures that previous governments have given, and are not binding for the new Greek government.”

Despite leading the polls, Syriza would still have to form a coalition government if it secures an election victory.

The polls also show gains for the extreme right Golden Dawn party.

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