Greek PM is hero and villain at rival rallies

Athens

A warrior for the "No" supporters, an "emperor with no clothes" for the "Yes" camp -- thousands of people demonstrated at rival rallies in Athens Friday where Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras was both hero and villain.

Over 25,000 Greeks gathered in the shadow of the parliament for the "No" rally while another 22,000 people filled a square in front of a nearby stadium, two days ahead of a bailout referendum to determine the country's financial future. 

"I'm not going to cry, I'm not going to be afraid, I'm going to say 'No'!" chanted Tsipras supporters as they descended on Syntagma square -- the scene of violent anti-austerity riots in the past. 

Addressing the crowd, he called on Greeks to vote "No" so the country could "live with dignity in Europe".

It's an idea that has spooked "Yes" voters, who fewer than 800 metres away were holding a rather more sedate rally of their own, complete with pro-Europe banners and Greek and European flags.

"They cannot pretend any longer that it's not about leaving the euro... and outside the euro lies only misery," said Nikos, 43, a doctor proudly wearing a white and green "NAI" (yes) T-shirt.

"We know austerity is hard but without sacrifices and demonstrating to others we are willing, we will be cast out and alone," said Mary Papadopoulo, a 37-year-old accountant.