Reaching the agreement with the creditors, even with all the painful provisions, is a positive step towards restoring a climate of financial and political stability in the country. It is clear though that on certain issues, such as primary residence auctions, the agreement is a far way from the government’s election campaign and post-election pledges.
However SYRIZA’s return to cruel reality is taking place at a rate that on the one hand undermines the efficiency of the measures it is called to implement and on the other deeply hurts its political identity. While SYRIZA accepted the agreement with Europe as the only solution for the country’s salvation, it never defended it and now, through procedural delays and failed negotiation tactics, it is trying to dispute it.
The VAT in private education and the delays in replacing it is a characteristic example. Even now they are seeking out alternative measures that lead nowhere, only for Mr. Tsakalotos to bring back the possibility of raising the VAT on beef, as initially proposed by the creditors.
Mr. Tsipras and his ministers must decide on other important issues, such as the pension reform; they must consider planning, what negotiation capabilities they have and what financial and social policy they want and can implement.
The country needs a true, comprehensive plan for a financial and social recovery and government officers who believe in it and can serve it. The improvisation with unfeasible alternatives and marathon negotiations without any meaningful outcome results in prolonging the instability and uncertainty. Let them set aside the breakthrough, yet unrealistic ideas and promises and decide if whether believe in what they are doing, whether their politics are service the interests of the country or the creditors…
TO VIMA
