Yesterday’s arrest of Michalis Liapis for a slew of violations, including forgery, is obviously humiliating on a personal level, but unfortunate it also has an effect on the political system. In an era where the people have disavowed politics and the politicians to a great extent, every deed, action or violation that fuels this climate of demerit, whether we like it or not, will have a detrimental impact on the entire political scene.
The former Minister’s unacceptable behavior and pathetic excuses are not insulting towards himself and the office he held, but also towards the people who are called upon to fulfill their obligations and respect the laws during this crisis. This is even worse since Mr. Liapis was Minister of Transport, the one responsible for the implementation of the laws he violated, and the Road Traffic Code he completely disregarded has his signature!
The people who discover such attitudes from a former Minister, even from one who is not active in politics, have a right not just to get angry, bit to wonder what potentially went on when he was at the peak of his power; furthermore when one considers that his departure from politics came at a time which was dominated by scandals.
It is obvious that politicians, whether they are active or retired, have an obligation to safeguard the prestige of their post and their dignity, especially in country plagued by the crisis, which, to a great extent, is due to the politicians. They are obligated to be examples of social behavior to follow, not examples to avoid. Above all though, they must understand that the era when they believed they were above the law and obligations has gone and, hopefully, will not be coming back. Society demands it and it is the only way for them to reclaim their lost dignity.
TO VIMA
