The vote in Parliament clearly demonstrated that there is a wide political majority, for the first time in the past five years, that is in favor of the agreement that will ensure Greece’s membership in the Eurozone. It also revealed that there is a deep schism within the governing party, which poses a risk to the country’s political stability.
The Prime Minister now has the major responsibility of managing, on the one hand, the great majority that guarantees the country’s membership in the euro and on the other hand, he must face the radical, as it would seem, political disagreement of a large section of his parliamentary group. It is clear that his government cannot rely on MPs – much less ministers – who vote against an essential agreement for the country’s future. The absurdity of voting against the measures, but supporting the government defies all logic in a parliamentary democracy.
The loss of the government majority in Parliament will prompt initiatives from the Prime Minister to ensure the smooth progress of the country and complete the agreement with our European partners. With its stance, the opposition, which supported the agreement, has given him the initiative of the first move.
The necessary reshuffle – at least – of the government is the first necessary step towards restoring parliamentary and government normality. The country needs a homogenous and efficient government, which can manage the country’s major problems.
The Prime Minister, who is called upon to make decisions, must take into consideration the new political realities that were shaped by the vote in Parliament.
The choices that Mr. Tsipras will make with determine, to a great extent, the country’s progress over the next period.
The critical situation of the economy and the major outstanding issues that must be addressed to complete the agreement, make it necessary to maintain the consensus that was reached in Parliament.
TO VIMA
