Syriza leader Stefanos Kasselakis has disclosed his wealth records, sparking fierce political debate ahead of European elections next week.
On the campaign trail in the northern city of Thessaloniki, Mr. Kasselakis, a businessman in the U.S. for 21 years, showcased his financial records for 2023 , declaring “I was not born rich.”
His total income for the year, including salary, allowances, fees, and property, amounted to $2,067,139.00.
“My left [ideology] is not in my wallet, but in my soul,” Mr. Kasselakis said during a speech, emphasising that his political beliefs did not influence his financial dealings.
He disclosed his stakes in two companies, noting that one, a foreign entity, was transferred early in 2024 in compliance with Greek law prohibiting party leaders from owning foreign companies. The records, he said, pertain to both himself and his husband, Tyler Macbeth.
“The pirates,” he said, “are not in Syriza; they are in the parties that owe 500 million euros.” He also assured that he has never taken public funds for personal gain.
In a challenge to transparency, Mr. Kasselakis called on Prime Minister Mitsotakis to release his own wealth declaration for 2023, setting a precedent for openness in Greek politics.
Deputy Prime Minister Pavlos Marinakis criticised the declaration as incomplete and questioned Kasselakis’ luxurious lifestyle, insinuating potential undisclosed sources of income.