During the election campaign period many domestic and foreign analysts presented SYRIZA as a “gang of components”, as a party without any cohesion or plan, without any standout representatives other than Mr. Tsipras, for some.
The foreign analysts who are not familiar with Greek politics compared him with the Beppe Grillo’s Five Star Movement in Italy or the Occupy Wall Street movement in the USA.
Many however were surprised by how quick the government was formed, as well as its structure and choice of divs. The government that Mr. Tsipras presented was planned out with pen and paper; its pyramid shape was no coincidence, it clearly took up a lot of work and preparation on the down time.
Irrespective of how it turns out, its composition is the result of mature thinking, sufficient understanding of the chronic problems of Greek governance and it was based on a plan of efficient force allocation and control.
Additionally, the choices were anything but rushed. The appointment of Yanis Varoufakis at the helm of negotiations is demonstrably proven to be correct.
The new Minister of Finances, despite the objections one may have for his anti-conformist attitude, his good command of the English language, knowledge and quick reactions, he managed in a very short time to win over the international public opinion, made the Greek problem clear to the entire world and on Thursday he demonstrated that he can adequately stand up against Schäuble. He embarrassed him on his own turf, when he referred to the dangers of Nazis and did not hesitate to scrutinize Germany for the protection it offers to Mr. Christoforakos, a person who has a prominent role in the domination of corruption in our country.
One cannot overlook the appointment of Nikos Kotzias at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a person who educated in politics, history and diplomacy, who is in the position to handle complicated affairs and is prepared to stand up against his counterparts in power countries. His first actions are already being discussed with interest.
The choice of Yannis Dragasakis for the position of government Vice President and coordinator of the financial ministries indicates the wisdom and understanding of close monitoring.
The selection of Mrs. Valavani is also no small thing, She is a remarkable person, educated, knowledgeable and with a strong code of values.
Even the placement of Mr. Lafazanis at such a critical and extensive ministry reflects courage and insight, as it makes the leader of the party’s opposition accountable.
There are so many more with special roles and goals that may forget or do not have the time to describe.
But aside from its divs, from the start, the new SYRIZA government demonstrated positions, beliefs and arguments that were not only difficult to ignore, they spread throughout society and may be presented outside Greece, as they are easy to understand and able to influence the citizens of other countries.
Whether we like it or nor, SYRIZA quickly and impressively demonstrated that it is neither a gang, nor an easy party to manage.
It may integrate many of the ills of Greek politics, it may include many of the scraps from the left and PASOK, but ultimately it has the strength, a desire and a goal and if it is not overcome by the passions of power, it may play a positive role.
Furthermore, the workaholic attitude of the old communists must not be undermined, nor the sense of responsibility and duty that distinguishes them and the need for survival that pursues them.
If they can get this Manichaeism of theirs, the simplistic “good vs. evil” approach that defines them, then they may offer far more than what Greek society is expecting.
Antonis Karakousis
