One would expect fewer celebrations and less arrogance from the SYRIZA/Independent Greeks government after the painful experiences of the past year. Instead of some rudimentary self-reflection though, instead of an apology for the unfulfilled promises, the Prime Minister chose the same divisive logic of the past, the same practice of imagining enemies and absolving himself of his responsibilities over the situation to which he has led the country.
With a deeply statist belief at heart, Mr. Tsipras and his associates do not only refuse any criticism, they also target media, journalists and political opponents, to find an alibi for their politics, fanaticize their followers and cultivate a climate intolerance. They will not hesitate to accuse social groups that are rising up from denial of the hopes they cultivated, as being in the far-right or servants of vested interests.
They arrogantly insist on denying any responsibility for the problems in society and the economy, on boasting about their proud negotiation and on accusing the Europeans and opposition for the tragic insufficiencies they demonstrated in the past year. They insist on twisting reality by claiming they never burdened the Greek people with huge new debts, that the PSI is to blame for the situation of the funds, that they have no part in the introduction of capital controls.
Rather than be the Prime Minister of all Greeks, as he promised, Mr. Tsipras insists on distinguishing the people in two categories: our people, our fans and the others who dare to protest, criticize, claim the respect of democracy and ensuring the country’s European course.
No government lasted long by making up enemies and demonizing political opponents and journalists. After almost six years of the crisis, the people have the memories and experience to judge promises, visions, hopes and moral advantages. No witch hunt will convince anyone that the responsibilities for the situation lie not with those in power, but those who criticize…
TO VIMA
