Greece bans neo-Nazi party from competing in May 21 general election

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The Greek government on Tuesday prohibited a political party associated with the neo-Nazi group Golden Dawn from participating in the country’s May 21 general election, according to Greek media reports.

The National Party, founded by Ilias Kasidiaris, a former Golden Dawn MP and convicted criminal, has been prohibited from competing in the election by the Greek Supreme Court, according to public broadcaster ERT.

The court's decision was based on a recent law that prevents those convicted of serious crimes, such as criminal organizations, from seeking office.

Last week, the Supreme Court also banned two other far-right parties, the Patriotic Union and Patrida party, from competing in the election.