The developments in New Democracy do not just affect the party voters and officers. They affect the political life of the country as a whole. Firstly because the role of the main opposition is crucial for democracy, as it has the responsibility of criticizing and monitoring the government. Secondly, because New Democracy – with all its weaknesses and problems – gives voice to a significant section of society, with specific ideological positions and a clear European outlook.

It is a fact that the consecutive electoral defeats in recent months are testing the party’s leadership and officers. It is also a fact that irrespectively of how crucial the leadership issue may be, it cannot monopolize the debate and clash within the party. After having the experience of being in power in recent years, the center right in Greece needs to redefine its politics, its relationship with society, to redetermine its ideological roots.

The crisis of the past few years has resulted in a depreciation of the relationship between the people and the parties, it tested their cohesion and undermined their ties with traditional sections of voters. New Democracy suffered the fewest loses compared to other parties, but was not left unscathed.

The reorganization of New Democracy is a necessary condition to ensure the stability of the country and political system. It requires though self-awareness, meaningful debate within – as it has always been a multifaceted party – and a radical renewal of politics and ideas. The economy and society change at an explosive rate, so woe unto the parties that remain anchored on ideas and beliefs of past times.

The leadership election in New Democracy presents an opportunity for a clash of ideas and political positions. If the debate and clash focuses on which leader is capable of facing Mr. Tsipras, then the opportunity for the true renewal and reorganization of the party will be lost once again.

TO VIMA