Stefanos Kasselakis, the 35-year-old leader of Greece’s left-wing Syriza party, took a break from the political arena on Friday to fulfill his mandatory military service, a rite of passage for many Greek men.
Appearing at an artillery training camp in central Greece, Kasselakis embarked on a brief stint in the country’s conscription-based armed forces, deviating momentarily from his role in the opposition.
“It’s an honor to serve the country I love,” remarked Kasselakis as he commenced his service, displaying a sense of patriotism amid his political duties.
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Unlike most Greek men who typically serve up to 12 months, Kasselakis, who had been living in the U.S. since the age of 14, qualified for a reduced six-month term, the majority of which he can opt to buy out.
Beginning with basic training at a camp near Thebes, located 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Athens, Kasselakis had initially expressed a preference for a more remote assignment, preferably near the Turkish border or on one of the eastern Aegean Sea islands.
His unexpected ascension to the leadership of Syriza in September, following a career as a U.S.-based businessman, marked a significant transition for Kasselakis. The party, known for its leftist stance, experienced internal conflicts as it shifted towards the political center, leading to a dip in popularity.
Despite this, Kasselakis has solidified his position within the party and steered it back to second place in opinion polls, trailing behind the governing New Democracy party.
As Greece’s first openly gay party leader, Kasselakis also championed the recent passage of a law legalizing same-sex marriage in the traditionally conservative country, showcasing his commitment to progressive causes.
In the midst of political turbulence, Kasselakis’ decision to fulfill his military duty adds a unique chapter to his political journey, blending civic duty with leadership responsibilities.
