Mr. Tsipras selected Mr. Kammenos as his government partners, without a second thought and in the name of the common, anti-bailout struggle. He fully complied with a far right and nationalist party, appointed its leader at an important ministry and did not miss an opportunity to join him in all sorts of jingoist shows. Now he is faced with his blackmail and threats, unable to manage a government crisis that he brought on with his choices.
Mr. Kammenos is doing what he has always done. He showcases populism and nationalism, because clearly that is how he believes he will survive. The problem however is not the leader of the Independent Greeks, but Mr. Tsipras and his government. A chance alliance, without principle and only aiming to claim power, is collapsing with the country at a cross road, with all fronts open and lacking any alliances both domestically and internationally.
With the refugee situation out of control, Europe divided and the threat of tens of thousands being trapped in appalling conditions looming, the government appears unable and helpless in managing the problem. The bailout program review is still under way, new measures and budget cuts are expected and yet even if the government maintains a parliamentary majority and everything goes ahead as planned, nobody can be certain of what will happen.
Mr. Tsipras is now faced with his tragic choices, forced to manage a crisis that he cannot pass on or circumvent with a media spin, as usual. He is forced to either accept the blackmail of Kammenos and clash with at least some of his parties, or risk losing the majority in Parliament.
What choice he makes it is clear that the government stability will be constantly under threat. Giver the open fronts and huge management problems that emerge on a daily basis, the situation is further complicated. The consequences unfortunately will be painful for the country and the thereat of being faced with uncertainty and instability is visible. The consequences on the ruined economy and deeply hurt and angry society will be tragic…
TO VIMA
