A new opinion poll shows left-wing opposition Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA) party ahead of the ruling conservative New Democracy by 1.5%, Ekathimerini.com said on February 12.

The survey showed SYRIZA leading with 30% support. A poll published in January put SYRIZA at 31.5% and New Democracy at 28%.

In the face of severe suffering caused by austerity measures, the radical group SYRIZA leapt from the political margins to nearly win 2012 elections, running on a pro-people, anti-austerity platform.

The new poll showed the neo-Nazi Golden Dawn taking third place with 8.5% and the Greek Communist Party (KKE) standing at 7.5%. Of New Democracy's coalition partners, the social democratic PASOK is at 7% and the Democratic left (a right-wing split from Syriza) is at 3.5%.

The poll also showed that 55% of respondents believe SYRIZA will win the elections, compared to 31% who think the winner will be New Democracy, Ekathimerini.com said.